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15 Best Day Trips From Nashville Worth The Visit

February 16, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are looking for the best day trips from Nashville , you have come to the right place! Nashville has great good, an amazing country music scene, and so much culture! But as the capital and most populous city of Tennessee , sometimes it is nice to get out of town and explore somewhere new! Whether you’re looking for a new city, scenic views, fun and interesting things to do, or charming small towns, this list will have the perfect place for you!

The destinations below are categorized by how long it will take you to get there, less than an hour, 1-2 hours, etcetera. These trips can be done in a day, but some of them deserve a couple days to fully explore and enjoy! The list of things to do outside of Nashville would be remiss if we didn’t include the best weekend trips from Nashville!

The area surrounding Nashville is beautiful and although our destinations are amazing, the journey is worth your time as well! So fill up the car, pack some snacks, and get ready to see some of the best short trips from Nashville, Tennessee!

Best Nashville Day Trips Within 0-1 hours

Franklin [35 minutes].

Only a 35 minute drive south from Nashville, Franklin is one of the best short trips from Nashville! This small, historic town is the perfect destination if you’re looking for somewhere to slow down and experience that famous southern hospitality! You are going to want to put this on your Weekend In Nashville Itinerary!

Named one of the “50 Best Places to Travel in 2022” by Travel + Leisure, Franklin is a special spot. Their Main Street is nationally recognized for its historic significance. Both Center House and Carnton Plantation are key sites to the American Civil War’s 1864 Battle of Franklin!

Boutiques, distilleries, over ten murals scattered throughout the town, Franklin is one of the great Nashville day trips!

Cedars of Lebanon State Park [35 minutes]

A quick 35 minute drive east will take you to Cedars of Lebanon State Park, one of the best dog friendly day trips from Nashville. Named for the eastern red cedars found throughout the property, early Americans were reminded of the Biblical cedars that grew on Mount Lebanon, hence the name Cedars of Lebanon.

Sprawling over a thousand acres, Cedars of Lebanon has over ten miles of hiking trails where hikers often see fox, deer and other wildlife. Dogs are allowed on the trails and on campsites, but must be leashed or caged at all times!

The park is also a big spot for birders and herbalists as there are 19 different endangered plants within the park. Cedars of Lebanon State Park is a great outdoorsy day trip from Nashville.

Nolensville [29 minutes]

Nolensville is the perfect place to escape for an afternoon. With cozy boutiques and small town vibes, Nolensville is one of the best things to do outside of Nashville TN! This is also the perfect place to go if you are having your bachelorette party in Nashville!

At Serendipity, you can pick out and paint pottery for your own home. With the short drive, picking it up after it’s been fired in the kiln will not be a problem! Whether its a custom ornament for a gift, or painting your own dishware for future entertaining, painting your own pottery is a memory to last a lifetime!

The Nolensville Feed Mill and The Amish House have handcrafted Amish furniture, food, candy, and other locally made products. Nolensville is definitely one of the craftiest short trips from Nashville!

Day Trips From Nashville between 1 -2 Hours 

Cummins falls [1.25 hours].

A little over an hour east from Nashville will take you to Cummins Falls State Park! This adventurous day use park is just shy of 300 acres and is one of the most dog friendly day trips from Nashville!

Cummins Falls is named for their 75 foot waterfall that locals have been swimming in for the last 100 years! The waterfall is Tennessee’s eighth largest waterfall in terms of volume and it is absolutely breathtaking. There are two hikes into the gorge; one is a mile and the other is a mile and a half. Both routes are steep with uneven terrain so its best to bring proper footwear!

Pack a picnic, grab your pup and swimsuit, and spend a wonderful day at Cummins Falls State Park, one of the more outdoorsy short trips from Nashville!

Waverly [1.25 hours]

With a population of only 4000, Waverly gives small town vibes while still full of so much to do! From history to the arts, Waverly is one of the best day trips near Nashville, Tennessee!

Perhaps the most visited attraction in Waverly is country music star Loretta Lynn’s Ranch and Campground. On property there is camping, cabin rentals, canoeing, fishing, hiking trails, a western town and gift shop, as well as Loretta and Mooney’s century old plantation home.

Also in Waverly are state historic areas, a wildlife refuge, and the Blue Creek Nature Center. Waverly has a little bit of everything depending on what you’re looking for and would make a great day trip from Nashville for families! This is truly one of the best places for camping near Nashville!

Pulaski [1.25 hours]

Pulaski is one of the best short trips from Nashville because it has everything. There are plenty of options to play, learn or dine!

One of the most fun attractions is the Milky Way Farm which was founded by the creator of Mars Inc. (that’s right, the candy bar company Mars Inc!). The twenty bedroom and 14 bath manor has secret doorways that lead to secret passageways and has left guests mystified for years! The house itself with American Chestnut beams and a custom built forty seat table, the manor is a work of art.

There are coffee shops, vineyards, bbq joints, delis, and restaurants galore in this charming town of the South. Pulaski is one of the most entertaining day trips from Nashville for families!

Lynchburg [1.5 hours]

There are plenty of reasons to make the hour and a half drive to Lynchburg, but the biggest reason is for the Jack Daniels Distillery! Lynchburg is one of the most fun day trips near Nashville for adults!

This small town of 5,500 residents draws 250,000 visitors every year. Tucked in the hills of Moore County, the Jack Daniels Distillery is the oldest registered distillery in the United States and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Every ounce of Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey is till produced there. To tour the distillery is free and for guest who are 21 and over, a tasting tour is only $10!

After the tour, you can also visit Lynchburg’s 100 year old courthouse, their charming downtown square, antique shopping, and so much more. If the need arises, there are many quaint hotels and bed and breakfasts to choose from. Lynchburg is one of the most fun Nashville day trips!

Mammoth Cave National Park [1.5 hours]

Mammoth Cave National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve! A short drive from Nashville allows you to witness the longest known cave system and thousands of years of human history! Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the more educational day trips from Nashville for families!

Actually located in Kentucky , Mammoth Caves have a rich history. From aiding the United States in the War of 1812 to being worked on by African Americans at all stages of its discovery.

There are many different tours to choose between from wheelchair accessible options to crawling tours. Your group is sure to be amazed and entertained at Mammoth Caves National Park, one of the most adventurous day trips from Nashville!

Chattanooga [2 hours]

Named by Lonely Planet as one of the “10 U.S. Destinations You Need To See” and by the New York Times as one of the “Top 45 Places to Go” in the world, Chattanooga is one of the best weekend trips from Nashville!

Only two hours from Nashville, it does not need to be a weekend getaway, but with so much to do in Chattanooga , we definitely recommend finding a cute hotel and making a mini vacation out of the trip! You can go ziplining, take a ghost tour, visit Ruby Falls, or take a scenic trip with the Chattanooga Riverboat Company! There are museums, zoos, a railroad, and so much more!

Chattanooga has all the makings for one of the best get out of Nashville weekend trips!

Huntsville [2 hours]

Just over the state line into Alabama is a high tech city with a historical legacy! Huntsville is one of the best day trips from Nashville for families!

In Huntsville Alabama you will find the U.S. Space and Rocket Center! With one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia on display, touring the center is a must! There is a planetarium show and an exhibit detailing the science of Guinness World Records! You can also take part in a 20 minute experience aboard the Discovery Shuttle simulator!

Huntsville is a great destination for people of all ages and is one of the most educational things to do outside of Nashville!

Day Trips From Nashville Over 2 Hours

Gatlinburg [4 hours].

Gatlinburg has a little bit of everything and that makes it one of the best day trips from Nashville for families! Since it is a four hour drive, we do recommend making this one into a Nashville weekend getaways!

Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains is always going to be on the list of things to do because they are so beautiful and unique to the South. But if your family or group is looking more to be entertained, Gatlinburg has you covered! SkyLift Park is all in the air! Their SkyLift chairs are 1,800 feet above sea level. The SkyBridge offers unique views of the Smoky Mountains and the town of Gatlinburg.

The Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and Penguin Playhouse will entertain with facts and fun things to experience. This doesn’t even scratch the surface of everything to do in Gatlinburg ! Please make this one of the best weekend trips from Nashville!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park [3 hours]

As the most biodiverse of the National Parks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks is one of the best dog friendly day trips from Nashville, Tennessee! Being three hours gives this location the flexibility of being a day trip or one of the best weekend trips from Nashville!

The Great Smoky Mountains offer beautiful views no matter you hiking skill level. The Newfound Gap is accessible through just driving to the parking lot! For more adventurous hikers, Charlie’s Bunion is a popular spot and is reached by an eight mile round trip strenuous hike on the Appalachian Trail! Chimney Tops Trail is also a very popular hike is shorter at only four miles round trip!

No matter which way you decide to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it is one of the more beautiful vacation spots near Nashville!

Graceland [3 hours]

This destination is for anyone who loves music, loves rock and roll, or loves people who changed the trajectory of history! Home of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, Graceland is one of the most fun weekend trips from Nashville!

Graceland is 120 acres of information about Elvis. Guests can explore his mansion on a tour, see his gold records and jeweled jumpsuits! You will also get the opportunity to see his impressive collection of classic cars! There is also a resort on property if you want to stay in The Guest House at Graceland!

Located near Memphis , it is one of the most American culture type vacation spots near Nashville!

Calhoun [3 hours]

We couldn’t finish this list without a spot in Georgia! At three hours away, Calhoun is one of the best weekend trips from Nashville! There is no shortage of things to do in Calhoun and it is fun for the whole family!

Perhaps the most interesting attraction in Calhoun is The Rock Garden. Put together by the Seventh Day Adventist Church the Rock Garden is considered a place of prayer. They have made castles, archways, little towns, a coliseum, all out of rocks. The surrounding flowers add to the majestic gardens.

Calhoun has a number of wonderful parks for the kids to play, an outlet marketplace to do some shopping, and state historic sites! Calhoun is one of the best day trips from Nashville for families!

Dollywood [3.25 hours]

It is hard to imagine a better day trip from Nashville for families than Dollywood! Dolly Parton wanted to open a theme park in her home town, but she didn’t want to tread on the park already there — Silver Dollar City. The owners reached out in 1986 and proposed a partnership that she quickly agreed to! Dollywood was born!

The theme park portion of Dollywood has over 40 attractions for all ages! Several roller coasters, a carousel, a train and so much more! “Splash Country” waterpark has over 15 attractions and space for the whole family to have a great day in the water. Both parks offer breathtaking views of the Great Smokey Mountains. Both parks advertise entertainment such as dinner shows, stampedes and so much more. The food is amazing as well! Included on property is a resort and cabins should you choose to stay!

Dollywood is definitively one of the best vacation spots near Nashville!

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10 Small Town Day Trips from Nashville

Travel to these conveniently located towns for an authentic slice of Tennessee.

Nashville is filled with music and entertainment. It’s also conveniently located to surrounding small towns offering an authentic slice of Tennessee through their outdoor attractions, restaurants and boutiques filled with locally-made products. The following small towns are located under a two-hour drive from Nashville’s downtown, perfectly located for a memorable day trip.

Franklin, Tennessee

If you love history, Franklin should be on your day trip list. Only 30 minutes south of Nashville, the town is meticulous about preserving the area’s history and telling the whole story. Hear how the Battle of Franklin occurred at the doors of several homes including Carter House , Lotz House and Carnton . These homes were transformed into Civil War field hospitals; the bloodstains of wounded soldiers can still be seen. After taking in some history, sample some brews along the  Masters & Makers Trail that winds through Williamson County. Have an unforgettable meal at Red Pony.

Kingston Springs, Tennessee

Adventure waits for you in Kingston Springs , only 30 minutes west of Nashville. Navigate your way through several obstacles at Adventureworks on the Aerial Adventure Course where you can climb, swing and walk across cables, ropes and logs. The canopy zipline tour also takes you from ridge top to ridge top. You can book a couples adventure that highlights team building obstacles and for a truly unique experience, book a Moonlight Tour where you’ll zip line through the forest with the moonlight to guide you. If you’d like to see what’s around each Harpeth River bend, Foggy Bottom Canoe & Kayak Rental will suit you up for a day on the water. The slow-moving rapids allow you to fully take in the beauty of Middle Tennessee . Fill your belly with delicious fare from the Fillin’ Station and cap off your day with a lesson in early Native American life at the Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area.

Gallatin, Tennessee

Travel only 40 minutes north of Nashville to Gallatin where you can spend the day browsing the cute boutiques on Main Street like Tennessee Honey , Sassy and Brassy and Southern Gypsies Boutique. Sculptures, framed art and textiles are all on display. Spend some time reconnecting with nature in Bledsoe Creek State Park with a hike on one of the seven trails. Keep your eyes peeled as you can see deer and 116 species of birds. Old Hickory Lake is great for fishing, boating and paddling along its 22,500 acres of water. Grab a meal at local restaurants like Swaney Swift's on the Square for classic hand-crafted burgers, fries and shakes, Starr Ranch for southern comfort food, and Awedaddys Bar & Grill on the banks of Old Hickory Lake open each spring, summer and fall. 

Columbia, Tennessee

Fifty minutes south of Nashville, Columbia is the home of the 11th U.S. president , a thriving art community and great eats. Start your morning with a cup of coffee and pastry or breakfast sandwich at Muletown Coffee Co. Explore the locally-made items at the shops housed in The Columbia Arts Building . Bad Idea Brewing offers a variety of beers and you can find beautiful bouquets at Bloom Stall. Art classes are also offered by local and regional artists. Spend some time at W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery where you can browse photos from the town’s early years. End your day at James K. Polk Ancestral Home , which has the largest collection of the former president’s artifacts in the country.

Lynnville, Tennessee

A relaxing day welcomes you in Lynnville about an hour south of Nashville. In the adorable downtown area, you’ll find luxurious leather goods at Colonel Littleton . Each piece is hand-crafted by fashion designer Colonel Littleton to showcase the beauty of full grain American leather. Gift someone (or yourself) a purse, messenger bag, travel bag, belts, portfolios, phone cases and so much more. Meander over to Heirloom Glass to find timeless stained glass, antiques and glassware ranging from crystal pieces to pottery and coffee dishes. After hours spent shopping, have a meal at Soda Pop Junction featuring Big “Johnny” Burgers – hailed as Tennessee’s No. 1 Burger, a variety of sandwiches, salads and plates piled high with catfish, hamburger steak, pork chops, chicken strips and more. Cap off your day with a tasting of dry wines like Pinot Gris, Merlot and Cabernet Franc and fruit wines like strawberry, persimmon and lemon at Lexington Vineyard and Winery.

Pulaski, Tennessee

Travel to Pulaski, Tennessee - about an hour and 12 minutes away from Nashville - for this small town’s sweet surprises. Tour Frank Mars’ – the creator of Mars which includes M&Ms, Dove chocolate, 3 Musketeers, Milky Way and more – home at Milky Way Farms set on 1,000 acres of green pastures. Schedule a tour to see the home that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the barns; walk the trails and more. Catch a show at Staar Theatre , an opera house built in 1868. Explore the historic square and stop in for a meal at Second Street Coffeehouse. They offer breakfast and lunch in a laidback atmosphere. You’ll want to stop in to do a tasting at Big Creek Winery . Here, you’ll find a variety of wines from white muscadine to concord and Catawba. Their extensive fruit wines include apple, blackberry and cherry, pear, raspberry, cranberry and peach. Tastings are always free.

Smithville, Tennessee

An hour and 15 minutes east of Nashville is Smithville, Tennessee . Check out the local and regional art on display at the Appalachian Center for Craft . The center offers craft workshops, art for sale and a variety of exhibits showcasing functional art and sculptural works. Pull up a stool and have an old-fashioned milkshake and burger at Webb’s Pharmacy, Gift Shop & Soda Fountain. You’ll find live music and local brews at The Burlap Room Beer Garden and Taphouse. If you’d like to extend your stay, check into Evins Mill which offers comfortable rooms, hiking trails that lead to a beautiful waterfall, and delicious meals.

Waverly, Tennessee

Drive west an hour and 15 minutes from Nashville to the small town of Waverly for outdoor fun and entertainment. Make your way to Johnsonville State Historic Area where you can embark on an eight-mile trail, a two-mile trail that is sprinkled with Civil War-era forts and a half-mile African-American cemetery loop trail. 

Linden, Tennessee

Winding scenic roads lead you to Linden, Tennessee , located about an hour and a half west of Nashville. You’ll want to spend all day traveling the Buffalo River by kayak or canoe. The Buffalo River is the longest free-flowing river in Middle Tennessee and flows 125 miles. Buffalo River Resort offers are variety of rentals from canoes to inflatable and hard shell kayaks, inner tubes and rafts. They even offer overnight moonlight floats for those who want to extend their stay. Mousetail Landing State Park has loads of outdoor activities as well including five hiking trails and two mountain bike trails. Fishing, swimming, boating and paddling are also available. Have a meal and listen to some music at the Commodore Hotel & Cafe . Fried buttermilk chicken, burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, fried green tomatoes and much more make up the menu.

Lynchburg, Tennessee

An hour and a half outside of Nashville, the drive to Lynchburg is picturesque and, once you arrive, the fun is nonstop. Kick off your visit with a stroll through Tims Ford State Park on some of the 6.5 miles of unpaved hiking trails. Seven miles of paved biking trails connect to the major areas of the park. Explore the multi-use mountain biking trail that runs along the shoreline of Tims Ford Reservoir. Take a tour to see how the world’s leading whiskey is made at Jack Daniel’s Distillery . Browse unique history at the Moore County Jail Museum . Pick up a unique piece at one of the many shops lining Main Street. Before you head back to the city, stop in Miss Mary Bobo’s for family-style, country dining or dig into perfectly smoked barbecue at Barrel House BBQ .

Next time you’re in Nashville , spend a day exploring one of the small towns located within a two-hour drive from Music City’s downtown.

Places in this article

Barrel House BBQ

Barrel House BBQ 2012 - Opened Barrel House BBQ           2013 ~ Featured on BBQ Pitmasters® television show           2014 ~ Voted Top 5 Best BBQ in TN            2015 ~ Additional Seating Inside and Out           2016 - Opened up the Wall Come join us!

Miss Mary Bobo's Restaurant

A Southern Dining Experience Unlike Any Other

Lynchburg Old Jail Museum

Old Jail Museum Lynchburg Tennessee

Jack Daniel Distillery

Enjoyed around the world, made in Lynchburg, Tennessee, Jack Daniels whiskey is matured in handcrafted, white oak barrels, in the nations oldest registered distillery. Personally guided tours are a part of the ambiance.

Tims Ford State Park

Located on the Tims Ford Reservoir, the 2,200-acre Tims Ford State park sits in the shadows of the Cumberland Plateau in south-central Tennessee. The Tims Ford Lake is considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Tennessee and is regarded as one of the

Buffalo River Resort

A great get away for a few days or a few weeks.

Mousetail Landing State Park

This 1,247-acre area is located on the east banks of the Tennessee River. Tradition has it that Mousetail Landing received its name during the Civil War period when one of the area's tanning companies caught fire. The exodus of mice fleeing the burning ta

Commodore Music Café

Small Town Service With Big Time Flavor. Classic Southern Comfort Foods with an Eclectic Twist. Live Entertainment and Bar.

Johnsonville State Historic Park

Johnsonville State Historic Park is named for former President Andrew Johnson and Union Military Governor during the Civil War. This 2000-acre park located in Humphreys County, commemorates the site of the Battle of Johnsonville and the historic town site

Appalachian Center for Craft

Visit the Appalachian Center for Craft and explore the art of contemporary fine craft.

Evins Mill is a small resort property near Center Hill Lake, offering the amenities of a luxury destination in the intimate setting of a bed & breakfast.

STAAR Theatre at Antoinette Hall

STAAR Theatre@Antoinette Hall stages live theatrical and musical productions for adults and children in an historic building.

Big Creek Winery Tasting Room

Big Creek Winery Tasting Room - Wines made locally from whole fruit. Come taste the uniqueness.

Milky Way Farms

Milky Way Farm was built on the success of a 5 cent candy bar. Today we host activities and events to protect this historic treasure. Check out our website or Facebook page for upcoming events or call / text 931-808-2281

Colonel Littleton

A label that launched in 1987 selling antique cufflinks, Col. Littleton stands for Americana roots and designs destined to become heirlooms.

Soda PopJunction

James k. polk home and museum.

W7thCo Vintage Photo Gallery

Fine art black and white photography: Americana, award winning art, news, crime, advertising and portrait photography that dates back 150 years.

Awedaddys Bar & Grill

Great waterfront restaurant in Gallatin

Bledsoe Creek State Park

Bledsoe Creek State Park is rich in history. It was once a prime hunting ground for the Cherokee, Creek, Shawnee and Chickamauga Native American tribes. Once English settlers arrived to the area, the once great herds of animals were dispersed, never to re

Foggy Bottom Canoe Rentals

Adventureworks, Inc

Fillin' Station

Located next to point 15, this local bar serves amazing pork shoulder sandwiches and BBQ quesadillas.

Franklin Theatre

The new Franklin Theatre continues the cherished tradition of showing movies, but also adds a new dimension to Main Street – live music.

Mantra Artisan Ales

Craft Brewery in Franklin!

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The Carter House

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Nashville, TN

Last Updated By VI on May 9, 2024 in Tennessee Day Trips & Weekend Getaways , Map

Mammoth Cave National Park (1 hour 20 min)

Stones river national battlefield (35 min), cumberland caverns (1 hour 35 min), land between the lakes national recreation area (1 hour 40 min).

• Complete List & Map

1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 42259, Phone: 270-758-2180

More ideas: Smoky Mountains Campgrounds

1437 Cumberland Caverns Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110-4673, Phone: 931-668-4396

More ideas: Day Trips from Chattanooga

Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek (2 hour 10 min)

More ideas: Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains

Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park (2 hours 10 min)

More ideas: Day Trips from Knoxville, TN

US Space and Rocket Museum (1 hour 50 min)

More ideas: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Tennessee

Dunbar Cave State Park

More ideas: Tennessee Beaches

Loretta Lynn's Ranch (1 hour 10 min Day Trip from Nashville)

44 Hurricane Mills Rd, Hurricane Mills, TN 37078-2147, Phone: 931-296-7700

Rock Island State Park (1 hour 35 min)

82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581-4200, Phone: 931-686-2471

Historic Diamond Caverns (1 hour 20 min)

More ideas: Waterfalls in Tennessee

Carter House (30 min)

1140 Columbia Ave, Franklin, TN 37064-3617, Phone: 615-791-1861

Cedars of Lebanon State Park (35 min)

328 Cedar Forest Rd, Lebanon, TN 37090-7678, Phone: 615-443-2769

Rock City Gardens (2 hours 5 min)

More ideas: Things to Do in Lebanon

Obed Wild and Scenic River (2 hours)

More ideas: Smoky Mountain Getaways

Natchez Trace Parkway (3 hours 30 min)

More ideas: Day Trips from Tennessee

Bourbon Heritage Center (2 hours 20 min)

1311 Gilkey Run Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004-2201, Phone: 502-337-1000

Jack Daniel Distillery

182 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352-7452, Phone: 931-759-6357

Tennessee Aquarium (2 hour Day Trip from Nashville)

1 Broad St, Aquarium Plaza, Chattanooga, TN 37402-1023, Phone: 800-262-0695

Old Stone Fort State Park (1 hour)

732 Stone Fort Dr, Manchester, TN 37355-3024, Phone: 931-723-5073 , ( website link )

Fall Creek Falls State Park (2 hours)

10821 Park Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367, Phone: 423-881-5298

Cathedral Caverns State Park (2 hours 20 min)

More ideas: Things to do in Gallatin

Montgomery Bell State Park

Travelers who want a real taste of the outdoors can opt to stay at one of the park’s camping sites or hook up at RV parks in the area. 1020 Jackson Hill Road, Burns, Tennessee 37029; Phone: 615-797-9052

Port Royal State Historic Area (45 min Day Trip from Nashville, TN)

3300 Old Clarksville Spgfld Rd, Adams, TN 37010-8911, Phone: 800-250-8614

• 1. Mammoth Cave National Park (1 hour 20 min)
• 2. Stones River National Battlefield (35 min)
• 3. Cumberland Caverns (1 hour 35 min)
• 4. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (1 hour 40 min)
• 5. Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek (2 hour 10 min)
• 6. Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park (2 hours 10 min)
• 7. US Space and Rocket Museum (1 hour 50 min)
• 8. Dunbar Cave State Park
• 9. Loretta Lynn's Ranch (1 hour 10 min Day Trip from Nashville)
• 10. Rock Island State Park (1 hour 35 min)
• 11. Historic Diamond Caverns (1 hour 20 min)
• 12. Carter House (30 min)
• 13. Cedars of Lebanon State Park (35 min)
• 14. Rock City Gardens (2 hours 5 min)
• 15. Obed Wild and Scenic River (2 hours)
• 16. Natchez Trace Parkway (3 hours 30 min)
• 17. Bourbon Heritage Center (2 hours 20 min)
• 18. Jack Daniel Distillery
• 19. Tennessee Aquarium (2 hour Day Trip from Nashville)
• 20. Old Stone Fort State Park (1 hour)
• 21. Fall Creek Falls State Park (2 hours)
• 22. Cathedral Caverns State Park (2 hours 20 min)
• 23. Montgomery Bell State Park
• 24. Port Royal State Historic Area (45 min Day Trip from Nashville, TN)

More Tennessee Getaways:

Resources: TN Vacation , Visit Nashville , Pigeon Forge , Explore Gatlinburg , Visit Chattanooga , State Parks

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The 20 best attractions and sights in nashville.

Whether you’ve lived here for years, just moved to town, or are visiting for the weekend, there’s no excuse for being bored in Music City. From must-see museums to iconic music venues, consider this your Nashville bucket list.

Nashville Zoo

Kids of all ages can enjoy a field trip to the Nashville Zoo , which has grown leaps and bounds since taking over the Grassmere property in 1996. Interactive exhibits like Critter Encounters and Lorikeet Landing as well as exhibits dedicated to flamingos, and meerkats keep local animal lovers intrigued.

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Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Perhaps the most gorgeous 55 acres in the greater Nashville area, Cheekwood is a hit with locals and visitors year-round. From the Cheekwood Mansion art gallery to the estate’s 12 sprawling gardens to special exhibits from world-renowned artists, you could spend hours taking in all kinds of stunning visuals. Cheekwood also has a variety of seasonal installations including Cheekwood in Bloom , Cheekwood Harvest , and Holiday Lights at Cheekwood .

Frist Art Museum

With exhibits that rotate every six to eight weeks, no visit to the Frist Art Museum is ever the same—but you’re always guaranteed to leave inspired. Housed in an art deco building, Nashville’s hub for visual art displays works from local, state, and regional artists as well as national and international exhibitions.

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The Hermitage

The home of Andrew Jackson, located on the outskirts of town, is one of the most popular attractions in the state. Open as a museum since 1889, The Hermitage sits on more than 1,000 acres and comprises the seventh U.S. president’s stately mansion, its surrounding gardens and grounds, and the Jackson family tomb. The million-dollar exhibit, Andrew Jackson: Born for a Storm , features interactive displays and a deep dive into his multifaceted life.

GEODIS Park

GEODIS Park , situated in the heart of Wedgewood-Houston, is home to the Nashville Soccer Club. This 30,000-seat stadium is the largest soccer-specific stadium in the United States and Canada. Looking to catch a match? See the Nashville SC’s home game schedule here .

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Fifth + Broadway

Fifth + Broadway is a mixed-use development conveniently located on Broadway in Downtown Nashville. The building combines restaurants, shops, office space, a museum, and residential units. Restaurants include local favorites like Slim + Husky’s and Hattie B’s as well as nationally-known eateries like Shake Shack and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. On the retail side, visitors can purchase Nashville-centric apparel at The Nash Collection or shop at one of the only brick-and-mortar Ariat stores in the world. Explore the 55,000-square-foot National Museum of African American Music or stay indefinitely at The Place.

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Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum

It’s known as “the Smithsonian of country music” for good reason, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum spans 350,000 square feet of prime Downtown Nashville real estate, which it packs with thousands of artifacts, two performance theaters, and countless rotating special exhibitions. The museum’s permanent installation, Sing Me Back Home , takes visitors through the evolution of country music from its roots in the nineteenth century to today’s biggest hitmakers.

Bluebird Cafe

The world-famous and incredibly intimate Bluebird Cafe is where you go to hear your favorite songs—and their backstories—straight from the people who wrote them. (Yes, just like on TV.) Nearly every night, this tiny cafe hosts a group of songwriters who play and banter their way through acoustic rounds, captivating those who got lucky enough to score a seat.

Grand Ole Opry

An essential Nashville music experience is a trip to the historic Grand Ole Opry —it’s the only place where country music stars of past, present, and future have shared the same stage. Spring for the backstage tour, where you can see the Opry’s 18-themed dressing rooms, learn behind-the-scenes secrets, and, if you’re lucky, step foot in “The Circle” yourself.

John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge , completed in 1909, is a steel-trussed bridge that connects East Nashville with the hustle and bustle of Downtown Nashville. Runners, commuters, and sightseers alike can be found crisscrossing this skyline landmark at all hours of the day, often pausing to admire the picturesque Cumberland views.

Ryman Auditorium

Your first show at the prestigious Mother Church—famed for its acoustics and pew seating—will be a turning point in your concert-going experience. Formerly the home of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman now shines on its own as a hallowed performance hall for all genres of musicians as well as comedians and authors. Self-guided tours are available daily, tickets are $27+ for adults and $18+ for children (4-11).

Broadway Honky-Tonks

Though they might complain about it, even locals have a hard time staying away from Nashville’s glittering main strip—it’s that much of a good time. Lined with perennial honky-tonks like Robert’s Western World and Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge , Lower Broadway has seen a revitalization with trendier establishments like Acme Feed and Seed and Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa .

Radnor Lake State Park

Offering 1,300 acres of serene forests, trails, and wildlife, the Radnor Lake area is a literal breath of fresh air for cooped-up Nashvillians. And this natural treasure offers even more than just exercise and a break from daily stressors—The Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center can turn your visit into a full-on learning experience.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Stop at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery for a part history lesson and part good old-fashioned whiskey tasting. Brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson revived their great-great-great-grandfather’s family business in 2009. The tour guides here will take you back to the start over a century ago and its subsequent shutting down during Prohibition—cheers to the Nelsons’ happy ending!

The Parthenon

The Parthenon , originally constructed as a temporary exhibit for Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition, is a full-scale replica of the iconic Athens structure that became so popular it is now a permanent Nashville fixture. Updates over the years have included the creation of the surrounding Centennial Park, a complete overhaul of the structure’s exterior, and the installation of a 42-foot-tall Athena statue. When you visit, don’t miss the fine art museum on the lower level.

Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar

The Goo Goo Cluster isn’t just your ordinary sweet treat—it’s the world’s first-ever “combination candy,” a swirl of caramel, marshmallow nougat, peanuts, and chocolate. Fittingly, the Goo Goo Shop and Dessert Bar’s headquarters isn’t just a shop—it’s a decadent destination, featuring Goo Goo’s rich history, a dessert and coffee bar, and a clear view of the confectionary kitchen’s skilled candy makers.

“I Believe in Nashville” Murals

You won’t find a more “Nashville” photo-op than the “I Believe in Nashville” murals . Music City native Adrien Saporiti has created two of them across town, one each in 12 South and Marathon Village —both neighborhoods are a must-visit!

Johnny Cash Museum

Whether you’re a casual listener or a die-hard fan of the Man in Black, it’s hard not to be emotionally moved as you walk through the Johnny Cash Museum . From his humble beginnings in Arkansas to his groundbreaking Folsom Prison performance to his love affair with June Carter, this is a fully-encompassing journey of Cash and his legacy.

First Horizon Park

First Horizon Park , is home to The Nashville Sounds, a Minor League Baseball team of the International League. This massive ballpark situated in Germantown, boasts an unrivaled view of the field, a guitar-shaped scoreboard, and limitless concessions. The stadium also hosts occasional concerts, events, and festivals.

Soundwaves + Gaylord Opryland

SoundWaves , the upscale indoor-outdoor water attraction at  Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center , offers over four acres of entertainment, including 11 slides, a wave pool, FlowRider wave simulator, rapid and lazy rivers, an activity pool, a restaurant, adults-only pool and bar, private cabanas, and kids areas. This attraction is open year-round.

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7 Comments on "The 20 Best Attractions and Sights in Nashville"

looking forward to visiting

I need to see my beautiful city! Summer 2001 here we come!!!!!

Hello, thank you for the information. I would like to suggest one more place to enjoy night life in Nashville and it is called as Legend’s Corner.

Free 1910 year old car factory museum showing how they made car in the early 1900s

I will be visiting Nashville soon, so excited can’t wait!!!

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30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Nashville (Tennessee)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 11, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Known for its energy and vibrancy, Nashville is one of the most famous music destinations in the world.

It’s actually nicknamed “Music City” because of its significance to the biz.

Its streets are filled with bars, clubs, concert halls, music studios and more recording stations than you can shake a microphone at.

There are other sides to Nashville, however.

It’s located on the river, so it has gorgeous natural landscapes filled with forests and ravines.

It was the birthplace of several notable figures, so there’s history to be learned from its landmarks and memorials.

A well-rounded vacation will take advantage of all of the attractions that the city has to offer.

If you’re looking for the most awesome things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, here are just a few suggestions for your bucket list!

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Grand Ole Opry

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Grab your stetson. Pull on your spurs. It’s time to visit the Grand Ole Opry .

Hailed as “the show that made country music famous,” the Grand Ole Opry has been running for almost a century.

It offers all of the latest and greatest in country, folk, gospel and bluegrass music, and it’s easily one of the best things to do in Nashville.

Catching a show is almost like a rite of passage in the South!

Visitors to the Grand Ole Opry can take a tour of the stage and dressing rooms before settling in for the night’s entertainment.

In addition to toe-tapping music, they also broadcast skits, comedy routines and other live performances.

When the curtain falls, you can grab a bite to eat at the Opry Back Porch BBQ or catch some ZZZs at the Opryland Hotel.

You’re sure to have a grand ole time at the Grand Ole Opry.

Swing by the famous red-barn stage if you’re looking for the very best in Nashville attractions!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address:  2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

2. Broadway

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Broadway is the beating heart of downtown Nashville.

Covering several neon-lit blocks, it’s a neighborhood where there are bars, clubs, restaurants, shops, saloons and honky-tonks as far as the eye can see.

During the day, Broadway serves as one of the more typical tourist attractions of Nashville.

Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining and sightseeing as they hop on old-fashioned trams and trolleys and explore the streets.

At night, Broadway transforms into something else entirely.

Live music spills out of dozens of bars and pubs.

Rooftop bars glitter with everything from lights to swimming pools.

You can find places to eat, drink, dance, sing karaoke, ride a mechanical bull or try on a jumpsuit covered in rhinestones.

Broadway is at the center of all of the action, so it’s easily one of the best things to do in downtown Nashville.

Grab your dancing shoes and get there tonight! You won’t want to miss a thing!

3. Parthenon

Before it became known for country music, Nashville used to have a reputation for higher learning.

It offered the largest number of colleges and universities in Tennessee and was sometimes referred to as “the Athens of the South.”

In 1897, builders decided to run with that nickname and raise a full-scale replica of the Parthenon right in the middle of Nashville.

Today, the Parthenon functions as an art museum and cultural center.

It hosts a number of paintings, texts, statues and sculptures from the classical era.

It’s one of the major points of interest in Nashville, especially for patrons of the arts; you can often find theater troupes performing Greek plays on the front steps.

The Parthenon is definitely one of the top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

It’s such a unique attraction that it deserves a visit even if you aren’t the type to wear a toga and philosophize about the stars.

How often do you get the chance to visit a Parthenon?

Experience it while you can!

Address:  2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

4. Cumberland Park

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Nashville has beautiful views of the Cumberland River, a 700-mile waterway that winds through Tennessee and Kentucky .

One of the best places to travel and see it is Cumberland Park .

Officially called a “riverfront play space,” Cumberland Park is basically a stomping ground for families who want to have fun both in and out of the water.

Its biggest attraction is a gigantic splash pad where you can cool off on hot summer days, but there are also bike paths, climbing structures and butterfly gardens.

There’s even an amphitheater for outdoor concerts that are held in Nashville.

If you want to gaze at the Cumberland River during a romantic date, that’s an option, too.

The park sits right on the riverfront; you can even take a stroll down the famous pedestrian bridge that stretches across the water.

One thing is for sure: Cumberland Park should be on your list of awesome things to see in Nashville.

Whether you’re honeymooning or just looking for ways to entertain the kids, it’s a great destination for a Tennessee vacation.

Address:  592 S 1st St, Nashville, TN 37213, United States

Planning to visit other parts of Tennessee? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Chattanooga and things to do in Pigeon Forge !

5. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

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You’ve never seen a hotel like the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center .

Not only does it offer luxury suites in the most hopping, bopping parts of downtown Nashville, but it’s also home to activities and amenities that make it a vacation destination in its own right.

For starters, the resort is filled with pools, plants, gardens, fountains and waterfalls in a glass atrium.

Boat tours are available if you want to drift along the water and enjoy all nine acres of the indoor jungle.

There’s also a spa, gym, golf course and several different ballrooms for banquets and other special events.

More than a dozen bars and restaurants line the corridors if you work up an appetite.

Long story short, the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center isn’t your usual hotel in Nashville, Tennessee.

It’s more like an adventure that you can take during any time of the day or night.

If you’re looking for amazing things to do in Nashville this weekend, book a room at Opryland.

It’s the best of the best in terms of accommodation!

Address:  2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States

6. Music Row

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Music Row is the single most famous street in Nashville.

Packed with record labels, radio stations, recording studios and music production companies, it offers a top to bottom look at the thriving music scene of the city.

What can you do at Music Row? It depends on your interests.

Lots of tours are available for recording booths and radio towers, and there are several local landmarks for sightseeing, including the statue of a famous producer in front of a grand piano.

It can also be fun to play “spot the star” with street names: Many avenues are named after country singers.

If you’re willing to venture a little outside of the neighborhood, Music Row is centrally located enough that many stores and restaurants are within walking distance.

You can eat, drink and shop while visiting the best parts of the area.

Music Row is one of the most iconic places to go in Nashville, Tennessee, so consider it a must see when you’re visiting the city.

Even if you only have time to snap a few selfies on the boulevard, it’s a destination that you’ll want to check out at least once.

Address: 16th/17th Ave. South – Division Street and Music Square, Nashville, TN, USA

7. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

Larry Darling / flickr

It’s easy to spot the large white dome of the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory .

It’s one of the biggest astronomy centers in Tennessee, and it stands on top of a large hill that provides clear, unobstructed views of the night sky.

Tours and telescopes are open to the public if you want to learn a few constellations while you’re in Nashville.

The observatory also hosts all kinds of special events like summer camps and eclipse parties.

They even open the grounds for outdoor concerts; you can bring snacks and a blanket to lay on the grass while you enjoy the music.

And when the performers have taken their final bow, the observatory staff will bring out the telescopes and let you cap off your evening with a look at the moon.

The Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory is one of the most fun things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

You might be drawn in by the dome; you might be irresistibly tugged by the music.

Either way, you’ll have a great time under the stars.

Address:  1000 Oman Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States

8. Nashville Zoo

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The Nashville Zoo is one of the most unique attractions in Tennessee.

Located about 6 miles south of downtown Nashville, the zoo we know today was a standard farm home in the 1800’s on a land that was later donated to the city by the Croft family.

The standard home, that paved way for the country’s 9th largest zoo, still stands on the property and available for tours.

There are approximately 3,000 animals in total, that represent about 350 different species.

Some animals are even available for feeding and taking pictures with!

There are also zoo-sponsored camps and classes if you’re looking for fun stuff for your kids to do on the weekend.

For example, “Night Owls” is an overnight sleepaway adventure, and “Zoo Tots” has games and lessons for tiny zookeepers.

Consider a trip to the Nashville Zoo if you’re looking for the best attractions to put on a to do list.

With everything from a rich history to a delightful menagerie of animals, it’s one of the top places to visit in Nashville for sure.

Address:  3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211, United States

Visiting other parts of Tennessee? You’ll love our lists of things to do in Gatlinburg and things to do in Memphis !

9. Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame

Many award-winning athletes have come out of Tennessee, including Daren Bates, Reggie Grimes and Jalen Reeves-Maybin.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates them all, and it’s conveniently located in downtown Nashville.

Browse the displays and exhibits that showcase the history of the state’s finest sportsmen.

Let your kids dress up in jerseys, helmets and pads for photo ops.

There are even a few rides that will keep your little ones entertained while you read up on all of the Olympic champs that have come from the Volunteer State.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum isn’t a large museum, but it’s a significant one.

You won’t find another destination like it in the Nashville area.

You should definitely bookmark it in your “what to see” tab when planning your Nashville vacation.

Address:  501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

10. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Kevin Oliver / flickr

You can’t miss Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge .

It has a bright purple building located in downtown Nashville, and at night, the line stretches down the entire street.

Everyone wants to toss back a drink at the oldest honky-tonk bar in Tennessee!

Tootsie’s has a long, colorful history in the country music scene.

Patsy Cline and Waylon Jennings were among its most famous customers.

Willie Nelson got his first gig after performing on its live stage.

It’s even been featured in a documentary called Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge: Where the Music Began.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is still thriving today.

It’s a place to see and be seen in Nashville, especially for up-and-coming musicians, and there’s always a lively crowd ready to buy another round.

Stop by Tootise’s when you want fun things to see and do in Nashville, Tennessee.

You never know when the next act will be the hottest thing in country music in a few years!

Address:  422 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

11. Warner Parks

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Nashville is such a busy metropolitan area that it can be easy to forget about its green places.

Fortunately, the Warner Parks are here to remind you of the beauty and majesty of Nashville’s natural landscapes.

The Warner Parks are actually twin parks, Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park, that span thousands of acres in the wilderness near Nashville.

Their beautiful lush hills are filled with everything from nature trails to picnic areas.

You can walk, tour, hike, bike or even go horseback riding among the sights.

If you like working up a sweat, check out the playgrounds, golf courses, tennis courts and mountain bike trails.

If you prefer more low-key activities, stroll to the top of an observation point and see for miles as the leaves fall and the sun sets.

There are a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy here, so if you’re a nature buff wondering what to do in Nashville, Tennessee, consider a trip to the Warner Parks.

They’re some of the most beautiful places in USA , and even though they’re free, you’ll enjoy a “two for the price of one” feeling when you hop between them.

Address:  50 Vaughn Rd, Nashville, TN 37221, United States

12. Hatch Show Print

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Hatch Show Print is another one of those uniquely Nashville destinations.

While other cities might have similar establishments, this one is firmly rooted in the one-of-a-kind color, charm and kitsch of Music City.

What is Hatch Show Print?

It’s a letterpress print shop that has been making posters for local musicians since the turn of the century.

Some of its earliest works have become famous for advertising young stars that grew into legendary figures; these posters are now priceless collector’s items.

Visitors to Hatch Show Print can tour the facilities and see how the old-fashioned printing machines work.

They’re still functional, and for a fee, they can print your own customized posters to take home.

Everything is done in the distinct and signature style of Hatch Show Print.

If you’re looking for the coolest things to see in Nashville, this is the site for you.

It’s almost like the birthplace of country music advertising.

It’s a little slice of history in the city, and it’s yours for the exploring.

Address:  224 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

13. Tennessee State Prison

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You’ve seen the Tennessee State Prison even if you’ve never been there before.

Looking like a medieval castle with its spiked towers and chamber windows, it’s been featured in countless movies, including The Green Mile, Against the Wall and Ernest Goes to Jail.

In its heyday, inmates at the Tennessee State Prison were subjected to harsh manual labor and long periods of solitary confinement.

They were even forced to wear striped uniforms like they really were in the movies.

Today, the Tennessee State Prison is an abandoned facility.

You aren’t allowed to go inside, but you can drive up to the fence and take pictures, or you can sign up for marathons and ghost tours that are given permission to operate on the grounds.

It’s an especially eerie place at night.

If you’re looking for unusual Nashville attractions, try a medieval castle prison that’s a favorite of Hollywood directors.

Stop by the Tennessee State Prison for a hair-raising time!

Address: 6404 Centennial Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, USA

Planning a road trip around Tennessee? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Tennessee !

14. Hermitage

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The Hermitage is one of the most important sights in the U.S. when it comes to the history and heritage of the American South.

As the home of former president Andrew Jackson, it’s a stunning example of grandiose, plantation-style architecture, and it’s been carefully preserved as a testament to the way that wealthy Nashville residents used to live.

It’s also an uncomfortable look at how the slave trade was normalized in the South in the 1800s.

Andrew Jackson owned dozens of slaves, and they were housed in log cabins behind the estate.

The dual nature of the Hermitage is why it’s considered one of the best tourist spots in Nashville.

It’s beautiful and culturally significant, but at the same time, it doesn’t let you forget about its dark past.

Consider a visit to the Hermitage if you’re wondering where to go during your trip to Nashville, Tennessee.

The best history lessons are ones that show you both sides of the story.

Address:  4580 Rachels Ln, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

15. Radnor Lake

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Radnor Lake is another one of those breathtaking places that you can only find in Tennessee.

With sparkling waters that lap sandy shores and jagged rocks, it’s actually considered a Class II Natural Area because of its beautiful, rugged scenery that’s protected from commercial development.

Activities at Radnor Lake are mostly centered around sightseeing.

Wildlife is abundant, so if you like observing animals in their natural habitats, you’ll be in for a treat.

Turtles waddle in the dirt; red-tailed hawks soar in the sky; deer can always be seen darting through the trees.

Swimming in the lake is prohibited because of its protected status, but you can arrange for special, supervised canoe trips in the springtime.

You’ll just need advanced permission, so if you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Radnor Lake, calling the visitor’s center should be your first step.

Grab your binoculars and head out to Radnor Lake so that you can experience one of the best sites in Nashville.

The views alone will be worth the trip!

Address: 1160 Otter Creek Rd, Nashville, TN 37220, USA

Planning on a road trip around Tennessee? Why not check out some of the things to do in Knoxville, TN  & some of the top Johnson City attractions ?

16. Adventure Science Center of Nashville

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If you’re traveling to Nashville with kids, you won’t want to miss the Adventure Science Center .

It’s an interactive, hands-on museum where learning is done without tests and textbooks.

Instead, children are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild with things like painting classes, building stations and excavation exercises!

Many different topics are covered at the museum, and many different activities are available for kids of all ages and interests.

Do they like animals?

Maybe they can learn how to harvest honey from a real beehive.

Are they addicted to tech gadgets?

Let them watch a laser show or put on a virtual reality helmet.

Adults can have fun at the Adventure Science Center as well.

The planetarium hosts “yoga classes under the stars” on the weekends, and there are workshops on the science of beer or the creation of famous movie monsters.

If you’re looking for lively places to visit around Nashville this weekend, consider the Adventure Science Center.

The whole family can have a good time, and if you play your cards right, your kids might even learn something new.

Address:  800 Fort Negley Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

17. Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary

Despite the name, there are a lot more than just owls at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary .

It’s a protected area for many species of Tennessee wildlife, including birds, reptiles, amphibians and small mammals.

If you want to go exploring, tours are available through the crunchy leaves of its nature trails.

If you like more structured activities, you can sign up for a basket-weaving class or a sunny picnic in the grass.

If you’re interested in special events in Nashville, you can swing by during a seed sale or a “movie in a meadow” feature.

All proceeds go towards conservation.

The sanctuary is a nonprofit with a good reputation, and its goal is to rehabilitate animals, repopulate plants and reignite the public passion for the environment and everything living within it.

If you love animals but hate seeing them in overcrowded, underfunded places, your heart can rest easy at Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary in Nashville.

Not only does it offer some of the best views that you’ll ever see of Tennessee flora and fauna, but your ticket sale will go towards a good cause.

Address:  545 Beech Creek Rd S, Brentwood, TN 37027, United States

18. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

If you’re a fan of country music, you won’t want to miss the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .

It boasts one of the largest musical collections on the planet, so not only is it a worldwide marvel, but it’s also a distinctive hallmark of Nashville, Tennessee.

There’s a lot of fun stuff to do at the museum.

You can take in photos, plaques, musical instruments and memorabilia.

You can watch archived footage of famous performances and interviews.

You can take in a biographical film reel or explore interactive displays and exhibits on country music.

There are also some famous sites at the museum, including the historic RCA Studio B.

Everyone from Dolly Parton to Elvis Presley has recorded there, and you can take a tour of the studio like you’re the next artist in line.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum if you’re putting together a list of vacation ideas for Nashville.

It offers such a fun and interesting experience that it should be at the top of the page!

Address:  222 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

19. Bootleggers Inn

Bootleggers Inn

Tucked away near several other buildings in downtown Nashville, Bootleggers Inn is a quiet, dimly-lit bar that might not catch your eye right off the bat.

It isn’t painted purple or flashing with neon lights.

You might need to circle the block before you even find it.

Once you’re inside, however, Bootleggers Inn will offer an extremely atmospheric vibe that befits Nashville’s underground music scene.

Its wooden tables soak in low lighting from vintage chandeliers.

Its crowd is very casual, and its live music comes in the form of guitar strummers and indie crooners.

Another nice thing about Bootleggers Inn is that it’s one of the only places in Nashville that sells moonshine, so if you’ve always wanted to try the real deal from a Southern speakeasy, this is the place to do it.

Nashville is no stranger to bars and clubs, but if you’re looking for something in the top 10 of fun, boozy establishments around the city, stop by Bootleggers Inn.

It’s a must do when you’re in downtown Nashville.

Address:  207 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

20. Honeysuckle Hill Farm

Honeysuckle Hill Farm

Located a few miles north of Nashville, Honeysuckle Hill Farm is one of the best places to visit when you’re looking for clean, family-oriented entertainment.

People of all ages and genders can find something fun to do!

Toddlers can shriek with laughter when they take a hayride or feed an animal at the petting zoo.

Kids will enjoy running around the fun house, getting lost in the corn maze or picking out pumpkins for arts and crafts.

Adults will appreciate sweet but healthy refreshments like candied fruits and ciders.

If you’re contemplating what to do during a vacation to Nashville, Tennessee, consider Honeysuckle Hill Farm.

It’s one of our top vacation ideas for families, especially in the fall.

There’s nothing like bobbing for apples to put you in an autumn mood!

Address:  1765 Martins Chapel Church Rd, Springfield, TN 37172, United States

Doing a road trip around Tennessee? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Franklin ?

21. Nashville Shores

Nashville Shores

Laugh in the face of danger when you visit Nashville Shores .

Offering a waterpark and a treetop adventure course, it’ll provide hours of fun whether you’re soaring on top of the world or diving deep into underwater pools.

The waterpark uses more than one million gallons of water in slides, rivers, wave pools and splash pads.

The treetop adventure course offers everything from ziplines to rope ladders and cargo nets that stretch between canopies.

Something to note about Nashville Shores is that it isn’t open year-round.

If you’re headed to Tennessee during the off-season for tourist attractions, make sure to book your tickets for this weekend!

All things considered, however, Nashville Shores is a wonderful destination for family-friendly fun.

Whether you’re a fan of water slides or ziplines, it’s one of the best places to visit near the city of Nashville.

Pull some goggles over your eyes and have a blast!

Address:  4001 Bell Rd, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

22. Sri Ganesha Temple

HiFi123 / flickr

You might not expect to see a Hindu temple in a place like Nashville, but the Sri Ganesha Temple is proof that multiculturalism is alive and well in the city.

With a beautiful temple that showcases everything from botanical gardens to bejeweled elephant statues, the Sri Ganesha Temple will dazzle you as soon as you walk through its doors.

Things only get more impressive on the inside; drums pound, disciples pray and homemade charms wave in the wind.

Visitors are encouraged to wander the grounds and learn more about the Hindu way of life.

A canteen will feed you if you’re hungry, and tour guides can explain the meanings of various shrines and statues.

If you go on a weekend, you might be able to sign up for a dance class or a dinner event.

The Sri Ganesha Temple is one of the best things to do in Nashville.

It’s a fascinating place that can teach a lot to open-minded visitors, and it’s worth a trip just to experience real Hindu culture in the heart of Tennessee.

Call and find out if they have anything fun planned for this weekend!

Address:  527 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209, United States

23. Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe

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You can’t talk about country music without talking about Johnny Cash.

He’s an absolute legend in the industry, and if you don’t believe that fact before you walk into the Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe , you’ll believe it afterwards.

Photos, records and artifacts tell his story.

Listening stations have samples of his most famous songs and demos.

Priceless guitars are protected in glass cases underneath wall-to-wall posters.

When you’re done with the displays, a live band covers Johnny Cash songs in a cafe near the museum.

Souvenirs are available at the gift shop, including the chance to “take a picture with Johnny.”

You don’t have to be a fan to appreciate what the Man in Black has done for the music industry.

Even if you’re just looking for fun things to do in Nashville, you’ll want to make some time for the Johnny Cash Museum and Cafe.

Address:  119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

24. Printer’s Alley

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Originally the home of newspaper stands and publishing companies, Printer’s Alley has transformed itself into a busy area for Nashville’s nightlife.

No one is quite sure how it happened, but it might’ve had something to do with the dark, gritty atmosphere of the alley or the way that many local restaurants smuggled in liquor during the Prohibition era.

Today, however, Printer’s Alley is home to all kinds of bars, clubs and burlesque joints.

Their lights glitter through the darkness and beckon people to come and visit.

No cars are allowed in the alley, so there’s always a crowd.

Printer’s Alley isn’t for everyone.

For example, you’ll want to leave the kids at the hotel before you venture into the thick smoke clouds that hover over the red bricks and flashing signs.

If you’re looking for jazzy places to see, however, Printer’s Alley is definitely near the top of the list of Nashville attractions!

Address: Between 3rd Ave N & 4th Ave N, An alley from Union St to Commerce St, Nashville, TN 37201, USA

25. Schermerhorn Symphony Center

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A little-known fact about Nashville is that it celebrates all genres of music.

It isn’t limited to country and bluegrass.

This is why classical fans flock to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center .

Towering above downtown Nashville with white columns and ornate clerestory windows, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is a pillar to the community.

It’s most famous for its violin concertos and string orchestras, but it also welcomes other types of performers.

It isn’t uncommon for the venue to host jazz shows, ventriloquists, drum lines, mariachi bands or Disney musicals.

Between its size and versatility, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center is one of the best things to do in Nashville.

It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking a black-tie opera event or a fun night on the town with the kids.

The Schermerhorn Symphony Center can do it all.

Address:  1 Symphony Pl, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

26. Long Hunter State Park

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There are many parks and wilderness areas in Tennessee, but only some pay homage to the Native Americans that worked the land before the Europeans.

Long Hunter State Park is one of them.

Home to the annual NAIA Education Pow Wow, the park is known for the mounds and relics of its original Native American inhabitants, and the pow wow brings together thousands of people each year to celebrate that fact.

You can find all kinds of lectures, workshops, demonstrations and souvenirs when you visit.

Another nice thing about Long Hunter State Park is that it offers a full roster of activities even when special events aren’t being held.

You can hike, swim, boat, bike or camp among the nature sites.

It’s also one of the best places in Nashville to go fishing!

If you’re wondering what to do to “get away from it all” in the Nashville area, Long Hunter State Park is a great destination for relaxing and recharging.

Visit at the right time and you can even enjoy authentic Native American culture!

Address:  2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076, United States

27. Belle Meade Plantation

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If you’re interested in revival-style architecture, you’ll die and go to heaven at the Belle Meade Plantation .

It covers more than 30 acres and is filled with 18th and 19th century hallmarks, including cabins, stables, carriage houses, mausoleums and slave quarters.

You can tour the grounds at your leisure or stop at the visitor’s center for a more guided experience.

A winery is nearby if you want to take in the sights while sipping on a red.

Some of the plantation’s points of interest are fun, like the carriage house that stored everything from plain picnicking carriages to elaborate Victorian carriages meant for showing off within the city.

Other points of interest are uncomfortable but necessary, like the educational exhibits on the slaves that built the estate from the ground up.

The Belle Meade Plantation is located a few miles south of Nashville in the city of Belle Meade, so you’ll need to take a short road trip to reach it.

However, if you’re willing to explore attractions near Nashville and not just within it, the plantation is a wonderful place to go!

Address:  5025 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205, United States

28. Timothy Demonbreun House

Timothy Demonbreun House

If you’re hankering for grits and gravy, the Timothy Demonbreun House is one of the best bed-and-breakfast joints in Nashville.

It offers soft, comfortable rooms in a vintage-style mansion, and its menu is filled with all of the Southern cuisines that you can eat!

Romantics, you should also know that the Timothy Demonbreun House is renowned as a wedding and honeymoon destination in Nashville.

It sits on beautiful, picturesque fields of vibrant green grass, and the white neoclassic mansion is a favorite backdrop for engagement photos.

Another fun fact about the Timothy Demonbreun House is that it’s named for Timothy Demonbreun, the so-called “first resident” of Tennessee who lived in a cave on the river.

His great-great-great grandson was tickled by the story and decided to name the business after his most famous ancestor.

Don’t worry, however; you won’t have to sleep in any caves as a visitor!

Book a room at the Timothy Demonbreun House if you’re looking for nice places to visit in the greater Nashville area.

Do it soon; do it this weekend.

It’s a popular destination, especially when love is in the air, so the suites fill up fast!

Address:  746 Benton Ave, Nashville, TN 37204, United States

29. Shelby Bottoms Greenway

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The Shelby Bottoms Greenway is one of the best places for nature lovers in Nashville, Tennessee.

It boasts forests, swamps, streams, fields and wetlands, so there’s something beautiful to see during every season.

It’s also home to more than five miles of paved trails, so you can enjoy the sights on foot or with a bike or skateboard.

Do you like a challenge?

Shelby Bottoms Greenway has a golden pheasant that scurries around the marshes at certain times of the year.

It’s something of a hobby among naturalists in Nashville to try and spot him before he disappears.

Do you want to slow down and just enjoy yourself in nature?

Spread out a picnic blanket by the river.

No motorized vehicles are allowed in the park, so nothing will disturb your peace and quiet.

Tennessee has some of the most gorgeous scenery in the South, so make sure to visit the Shelby Bottoms Greenway when you’re in Nashville.

It isn’t the only place to stop and smell the roses, but it’s one of the best.

It’s worth a day trip to experience it all.

Address: 1900 Davidson St., Nashville, TN 37206, USA

30. Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant

Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant

Housed in a blocky building straight out of the 1950s, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant is one of the oddest Nashville attractions that you’ll ever visit.

On one hand, it’s a grocery store where you can stock up on the essentials.

On the other hand, it’s a restaurant where you can order plate lunches and ice-cold pitchers of beer.

On the other other hand, it’s a music hall where you can enjoy live performances from local rock and country bands.

Despite its identity crisis, however, Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant is a hot destination in Nashville.

People come from all over to enjoy its barbecue platters and music shows.

If you’re wondering what to do in the Nashville area on a Friday night, this is a location to consider.

Stop by Puckett’s Grocery and Restaurant if you’re looking for the best, most memorable things to do in Nashville.

None of your friends will even believe that you ate dinner and watched a concert in a grocery store.

You’ll have to take pictures to prove it!

Address:  500 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Nashville

These are just a few of the most fun things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

Whether you’re interested in high-energy concerts or low-key nature retreats, this city has it all.

Happy travels!

Home » North America » USA » Tennessee » 39 Best Things to Do in Nashville

39 Best Things to Do in Nashville

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: November 1, 2023

Music City (aka Nashville) seems to have it all. There is live music basically any hour of the day, fun places to hang out and relax, and history stretching back to the early days of America. And don’t forget the incredible food. We’ve spent a lot of time exploring the city and learning about all the best things to do in Nashville, Tennessee.

Whether you’re looking to booze it up at a rooftop bar on Broadway, settle in for a night of acoustic music, or uncover the quirky side of the city, there is plenty to choose from. From finding cool street art to checking out the city’s museums, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a look at some of our favorite ways to spend time in the city. 

Try hot chicken

See the parthenon, visit robert’s western world, hang out at pinewood social, visit the hermitage hotel, shop at marathon village, seek out street art, try biscuits at loveless cafe, see a show at a listening room, sink your teeth into a goo goo cluster, tour belle meade historic site, enjoy the view at a rooftop bar, visit the ryman auditorium, see hatch show print, play around at tee line, get outside at cheekwood estate & gardens, sample spirits at a local distillery, try artisan chocolate at olive and sinclair, stroll the seigenthaler pedestrian bridge, visit the national museum of african american music, hang out in printers alley, indulge at five daughters bakery, browse five points alley shops, tour belmont mansion, go wine tasting at arrington vineyards, see an exhibit at the frist art museum, visit the johnny cash museum, browse nashville farmers market, learn about history in the civil rights room, explore l&l market, have a drink at the patterson house, take a walk at the warner parks, explore gaylord opryland, visit andrew jackson’s hermitage, try a flight at diskin cider, eat dinner in a former theater, see the country music hall of fame, enjoy a game at game point cafe, wander hillsboro village.

Trying hot chicken is at the top of the must do list in Nashville. The succulent meat is marinated, floured, and fried. But the last couple of steps are what set it apart from other fried chicken.

Right before serving, a cayenne pepper sauce is added to the hot chicken before it is neatly positioned between a slice of white bread and pickle chips. Depending on your request, the sauce can vary from mild to sweet-Jesus-this-is-spicy. Add black eyed peas, baked beans, French fries, or pimento mac-and-cheese, and you’re good to go.

Prince’s Hot Chicken is the original place to try Nashville hot chicken. They’ve been making it delicious and down home for over 80 years. Bolton’s also comes highly recommended. My choice is Hattie B’s , which has quickly become a local staple.

Centennial Park is home to a full-size replica of the Parthenon , originally built in 1897. Now an art museum, it houses a group of paintings by 19th- and 20th-century American artists and provides space for temporary exhibits.

The centerpiece of the building is an imposing 42-foot-tall statue of Athena covered in gold leaf, as it would have been in the Parthenon in Athens . Not exactly an expected sight in the American South.

See The Parthenon and other landmarks the easy way on a half-day city tour or this 2.5-hour Segway tour . To do it all at your own pace, the hop-on hop-off trolley is a great option.

On our first trip to the city, a Nashville native told us that the only honky tonk on Broadway that locals go to is Robert’s Western World . We can’t confirm that, but the recommendation made us change our plans and head for the place with the boot and guitar sign.

Honky tonks don’t have a cover charge, so you can grab a stool, order the house specialty—a fried bologna sandwich—and pay what you wish when the band passes the tip jar. Live bands play essentially all day, providing the soundtrack for visitors two-stepping just in front of the stage.

The classic country tunes give the place a laid back but fun atmosphere if you want to have a good time without feeling like you’re in the middle of a rock concert. You can’t have an experience like this just anywhere, which makes visiting Robert’s Western World one of our favorite Nashville activities.

Pinewood Social is…well, it’s almost impossible to come up with a short phrase to describe this distinctive, genius space. A restaurant, coffee shop, bowling alley, outdoor oasis, and co-working space all rolled into one, Pinewood Social serves just about every need morning, noon, and night. It’s one of the best places to visit in Nashville.

Pinewood Social is a great place to have a cup of coffee and get some work done during the day before visiting the pool and grabbing dinner and a cocktail in the evening. And don’t forget the bocce ball.

If we lived in Nashville, we’d be here all the time. Instead, we have to settle for having the smashburger and crispy tater tots on every visit.

The Hermitage Hotel is one of the finest places to stay in Music City. At over 100 years old, the hotel has welcomed just about everybody who’s anybody into its well-appointed rooms (there was a Keith Urban sighting during our visit!).

The lobby is spectacular, and the food is delicious, but one of the quirkiest reasons to visit the Hermitage Hotel is the Art Deco men’s bathroom. Located just off the hotel lobby, it has consistently been noted as the best bathroom in America.

The large loo is decorated with bright green and black glass tiles and green fixtures. If you’re in the mood, you can stop a moment in the two-seat shoeshine station that greets you when you pass through the door. At this point, it’s so famous that the bathroom is also open for women. And photos. A visit here is one of the best free things to do in Nashville.

At Marathon Village , a former automobile plant has been re-purposed into a cool shopping center and creative community in the North Gulch neighborhood. There are art studios, galleries, and home decor and gift shops. You’ll even find Antique Archaeology—the shop owned by the guy in the History Channel’s American Pickers show—and one of the famous “I Believe in Nashville” murals.

The building renovation was a decades-long labor of love resulting in a contemporary space that’s full of history. In open spaces throughout the building, there is old equipment from the original factory and panels describing the building’s illustrious past.

Nashville is packed with street art. Hidden in alleys, under bridges, in parking lots—murals and artworks seem to be everywhere. Finding them around the city feels like a scavenger hunt. Luckily, you never have to look too far.

One of the most popular murals in town is the “WhatLiftsYou Wings mural ” by Kelsey Montague, which you can find in The Gulch. There’s even a painted line on the sidewalk to show people where to patiently wait a turn for a photo. When you’re done there, take a walk down 11th Avenue South to see what other murals you can find.

Beyond The Gulch, the Germantown and East Nashville neighborhoods have lots of street art. Wander the area near Werthan Lofts or take a drive down Gallatin Pike to see some of the highlights of the ever-changing canvas.

Loveless Cafe in southwest Nashville, Tennessee, is the place to go for Southern cooking. It’s known for all things heavenly from country ham to red-eye gravy and especially its all-day breakfast. But what people line up for just about every day of the week are the biscuits at Loveless Cafe .

The flaky pillows of love—served with homemade preserves, of course—come alongside almost everything on the menu. That’s because they’re delicious and rival the cooking of any Southern grandma. Made from scratch every day, the biscuits are worth the 25-minute trip outside of town.

See our recommendations for a weekend itinerary in Nashville .

There’s no shortage of great music in Nashville, but the bars and honky tonks—especially downtown—can get a little crazy. If you’re looking for a more relaxing environment, consider one of the venues featuring song writers and up-and-coming performers.

Bluebird Cafe is the classic listening room. It’s super popular, and even their open mic nights sell out faster than you can say “Music City.” The aptly-named The Listening Room Cafe is a great alternative for hearing works straight from the song writers of both new songs and chart-topping hits. They also serve good food and have valet parking. It’s a great date night spot .

Take peanuts, caramel, and marshmallow, and coat it in milk chocolate, and you get what is essentially the perfect candy bar—a Goo Goo Cluster. Invented in 1912, this classic candy has its own outpost in the heart of downtown.

At the Goo Goo Chocolate Co., you can find varieties of the clusters or go all-out at their dessert bar with different kinds of fudge, ice cream, and other treats. I did the classic with a spin—premium vanilla ice cream topped with a chopped peanut butter Goo Goo Cluster. It was heaven.

To immerse yourself in this chocolate world even more, consider their make-your-own chocolate bar classes or a class that pairs chocolate with wines and spirits.

Once home to the wealthiest family in Nashville and the largest thoroughbred horse farm in the US, Belle Meade plantation welcomed celebrities, presidents, and countless notable people at its height.

Today, a tour of Belle Meade offers a glimpse into the life of the moneyed class around the time of the Civil War and beyond. Visitors can wander the grounds to see original buildings, tour the mansion, and learn about the lives of the enslaved people who built the family’s fortune. It’s an interesting and educational experience to get a brief peek into the Old South at one of the top places to go in Nashville.

Nashville is blessed with dozens of rooftop bars with picturesque views and lots of ambiance. From pool decks and live music to seating in swings and private cabanas, they are great places to chill out and enjoy your beverage of choice.

On Broadway, Lookout at Ole Red is our go-to spot—it’s a bit more refined than some places and has a great view of the action. In The Gulch, our choice is Up , a rooftop lounge where you can relax on the couches or chat over the fire pits.

In the Arts District, the super cool Bobby Hotel has a premium rooftop lounge. You can grab a seat at the bar or hang out in the bus. In winter, you may even find yourself in one of their igloos or chic cedar cabins like we did.

In many ways, the Ryman Auditorium made Nashville the capital of country music. Opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman was the home of the Grand Ole Opry, which was broadcast from the stage every week for 30 years.

Today, visitors can tour the hallowed auditorium and hear Trisha Yearwood, Nicole Kidman, and others talk about the history of the building and its performers on audio information panels. You can take a photo on the Ryman’s famous stage and even make a record. The self-guided tour of one of the top Nashville attractions is at your own pace.

If a tour isn’t quite your speed, you can grab a ticket to one of the performances (country music and beyond) that still happen here almost every night of the week.

Hatch Show Print’s distinctive letterpress printing style is known throughout the South. Its images of Americana—especially those related to music and art—and its vintage lettering have made it sought after by entertainers and businesses. One of the oldest working letterpress print shops in America, Hatch Show Print is open for tours, and you can even make your own prints at one of their regular block parties.

We loved browsing all the examples from art through the years and seeing presses and fonts on display. When you’re finished, pop into Bajo Sexto Taco (in the same building) for great street tacos. We loved the carnitas and the coconut shrimp tacos. You can even grab a margarita to-go.

For something a little unexpected, head to Tee Line . A visit to the city’s first curling venue is what to do in Nashville when you want something off the typical tourist track. This fun space has classes where you can learn to curl, bowling lanes, and lots of food, drink, and TVs for when you want a break from the recreation.

Tee Line features daily happy hour specials, and there is always something fun happening here, so it’s great to visit even if you only want to be a spectator.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a must if getting outdoors is on your Nashville to do list. The beautiful botanical garden spans 55 acres and features 12 distinct gardens and a woodland walking trail. It’s an easy place to lose yourself for hours among the trees and blooming flowers. We’ve been in spring and winter, and it was stunning in both seasons.

There are seasonal festivals and events like the spring Cheekwood in Bloom that features over 150,000 blooming bulbs and Cheekwood Lights , which includes over one million lights during the holiday season.

The estate’s art galleries showcase some of the 7000 works in its permanent collection—including sculpture, paintings, and artifacts from around the world—as well as temporary exhibitions.

Distilleries are always on the top of our list any time we visit a new destination. About 90 minutes from Nashville in Lynchburg, you’ll find the home of the top-selling American whiskey in the world—Jack Daniel’s. A tour of the Jack Daniel’s distillery demonstrates the care and craftsmanship that goes into this line of incredibly popular beverages.

Whether you’re a Jack drinker or not, we couldn’t recommend the tour here more highly. And, if you are a Jack drinker, definitely take the tasting tour. It’s one of the best things to do in Tennessee !

If you’d like to visit Jack Daniel’s but don’t want to drive yourself, check out this convenient transportation option.

If you want to stick a little closer to Music City, there are several great Nashville distilleries to visit . Three of our favorites are Corsair Distillery, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, and Nashville Craft Distillery.

At Corsair’s location on Merritt Avenue, visitors can sample absinthe, whiskey, gin, or any of the other spirits at the bar or take a behind-the-scenes tour. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery offers tours, tastings, and cocktail experiences featuring their bourbons that are made using pre-Prohibition family recipes. Nashville Craft Distillery produces small-batch spirits like gin and bourbon as well as unique offerings made from sorghum. I particularly liked their spiced honey liqueur.

Located in a 19 th -century building in East Nashville, Olive and Sinclair is the city’s premier chocolate maker. They pride themselves on being Tennessee’s first “bean-to-bar” chocolate company, roasting and grinding the cacao and making their unique flavors on-site. Stop by to try their sea salt chocolate, duck fat caramels, or other specialties.

If you want to see the process at work, take one of the Saturday tours. There are plenty of samples available on the 45-minute tour, and you’ll learn all there is to know about how the artisan chocolate is made.

The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge spans the Cumberland River and connects downtown to the football stadium. There is no automobile traffic, so cyclists and walkers move at their own pace, often stopping to take photos of the river and downtown. It’s a very pleasant place for a walk.

From spirituals to hip hop, the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) traces the evolution and impact of Black music in America. The 56,000-square-foot space is full of interactive exhibits that let visitors hear a huge range of songs and see how artists across generations and genres collaborated and influenced each other to create some of the best songs ever written.

Visitors can curate their own playlist of songs they like by scanning personalized bracelets as they move through the exhibits. They can also make their own beats and sing along with a gospel choir. In addition to the interactive elements, NMAAM has lots of memorabilia ranging from early hymnals and songbooks to costumes and platinum records.

Once the center of the city’s printing industry (hence the name), Printers Alley is a National Historic District. But, more importantly for visitors, it’s a center of nightlife in the heart of downtown.

With nightclubs, karaoke joints, bars, and places for live music, Printers Alley is a fun place for a night out. Check out Bourbon Street Blues & Boogie Bar for blues music and a Hurricane or grab a bite to eat at Skull’s Rainbow Room.

The donuts at Five Daughters Bakery are the best I’ve ever had. Ever.

With three locations, this family-run bakery makes a variety of donuts. There are traditional yeast donuts and vegan and paleo options. But what they’re known for is their 100-layer donut–the combination of a donut and croissant is rolled in sugar, filled with cream, and glazed. I’m head-over-heels for the maple glazed donut. SO. GOOD.

The Five Points Alley Shops are a hub of creativity. This collection of small businesses in one shopping center makes it easy to see lots of unique offerings in one spot. See the treasures at the unconventional fine jewelry store Riveter or browse used, rare, and out-of-print books at Defunct Books . See artistic exhibitions at Raven & Whale Gallery or shop for amazing vintage cowgirl boots and other stylish finds at Goodbuy Girls.

Belmont Mansion was the antebellum summer estate of Adelicia Acklen, who was the wealthiest woman in Tennessee in the mid-1800s. Once in the countryside, the home is now right in the heart of the city on the campus of Belmont University.

The house is sumptuously furnished in period pieces, including Roman sculptures, gifts from a US President, and treasures brought back from a Grand Tour of Europe. A visit to Belmont Mansion is a look at the luxuriant lifestyle of a family who seemingly sailed through the Civil War with little repercussion, which was uncommon in the South. Unfortunately, due to the lack of record keeping at the time, information about the enslaved workers who built that fortune is scant, which means visitors only get a part of the story. But an opulent story it is.

Just a half-hour from downtown, a visit to Arrington Vineyards is one of the fun things to do near Nashville. On weekends and nice days, it seems like the whole property is full of families and groups of friends having picnics, playing games, and drinking wine from Arrington.

With about 20 reds, whites, and dessert wines to choose from, the vineyard offers tastings and bottles for sale. There is frequent live music and a rotating list of food trucks on Fridays.

The Frist Art Museum is unique in that it doesn’t have a permanent collection. Instead, it showcases the work of artists from across Tennessee, the US, and the world in rotating exhibits. The museum has featured everything from art from the American West to the best works of Picasso.

The Frist is also the home of the Martin ArtQuest Gallery which allows guests of all ages to create art at 30 interactive stations and features regular classes and educational programs.

The Johnny Cash Museum is dedicated to the life and music career of the country legend. In this small space, you can listen to a retrospective of Cash’s music through the years and see exhibits like his costumes, instruments, photos, and handwritten lyrics. Personal items like his high school yearbook and his marriage certificate with June Carter Cash are also on display.

One of the more unexpected items is a stone wall that was part of Cash’s home before it burned down in 2007. The museum is well-done and interesting, but with a $26 admission fee, the Johnny Cash Museum may be best reserved for Cash’s most enthusiastic fans.

Next door, you’ll find Johnny Cash’s Bar & BBQ. Each of the two floors of this Southern restaurant has a stage for live music and a bar, so you can eat pulled pork and mashed potatoes, sip whiskey, and listen to some of the city’s best music all at once.

Open year-round, Nashville Farmers Market is home to a variety of not only farmers but artisans, restaurateurs, crafters, and more. Since it began in the early 1800s, the market has been a bustling place and a must see in Nashville.

The Farmers Market covered farm sheds host up to 100 farmers–depending on the season–along with dairies, cheese-makers, and others selling their products. Inside the market are 20 restaurants and shops. Whether you’re looking for gourmet pizza, Jamaican specialties, or anything in between, you’re likely to find it here.

The Civil Rights Room on the second floor of the Nashville Public Library focuses on the protests against Jim Crow laws that took place in the city. Visitors can read about activists’ efforts to end segregation and can sit at a symbolic lunch counter of the kind occupied by protesters in 1960. Reproductions of the arrest records of future Congressman John Lewis, who played a leading role in the sit-ins, are also in display.

In West Nashville, L&L Market is a fun place for a little shopping and a lot of eating. There’s great coffee at Honest Coffee Roasters, over-the-top milkshakes at Gracie’s Milkshake Bar, and charcuterie on a cool conveyor belt at Culture & Co.

If you need a break from eating, browse around for jewelry, home furnishings, and gifts.

L&L Market is great any time, but it’s a particularly nice place to go in Nashville when it’s raining or cold because there’s so much to choose from.

At this speakeasy on Division Street, a floor-length, velvet curtain separates the entryway from the main bar. It’s the first sign that the Patterson House is a kind of cool you don’t experience many places. To get in, there must be a seat for you. No seat, no drink. It all contributes to the upscale but relaxed environment where the bartenders will engage with you at length before recommending one of their custom-crafted cocktails.

In addition to the drinks, you’ll also find a menu featuring delicious bites like shrimp corn dogs, fried brie, and fried chicken po’ boy sliders. It gets busy here, so show up near opening or closing time if you don’t want to wait. It’s worth it to see this institution when you visit Nashville.

At more than 3100 acres, the Edwin and Percy Warner Parks—collectively known as “The Warner Parks”—are where to go in Nashville for getting some fresh air not far from downtown. Go for a hike, take a picnic, take advantage of the golf course, or challenge yourself on the massive staircase that welcomes visitors to Percy Warner Park.

The Gaylord Opryland is like an indoor city. With more than 15 restaurants and bars, 2800+ rooms, and lots of shops and other features, I’m embarrassed to say how many times we got lost during our stay here.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-manage adventure with everything you need in one spot, this is it. Take a boat ride through the hotel, watch a radio broadcast in the on-site studio, or check out their water park called Soundwaves where you can slide, swim, or float the lazy river. The choices for things to see and do here are insane.

A visit to the Gaylord is a must do in Nashville at Christmas . From decorations to ice sculptures to indoor snow tubing, all the wintery things are available here.

The Hermitage plantation was the home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, and his family from 1804 until his death in 1845. The 1100-acre property includes the mansion and garden (including a tomb), former cotton fields, and several 19th-century cabins that housed enslaved people.

One of the more historical things to do in Nashville, a tour of the Hermitage’s museum and grounds paints a picture of a popular but complicated president with a fiery personality and provides information about the lives of the enslaved people on the plantation. Guides inside the mansion provide commentary about life in the house and are proud to point out that the Hermitage is the most accurately-preserved of the early Presidents’ homes .

Diskin Cider is Nashville’s first (and only!) craft cidery. Using fresh pressed apples, they make a range of cider flavors ranging from traditional dry to hopped to fruit flavors and even fruit tea. Our favorites were the semi-sweet and the seasonal cinnamon flavor.

The key to Diskin Cider’s product line is that none of the ciders is overly sweet—there’s no sugar or anything artificial added. Plus, they’re gluten free.

There are about 10 ciders on the menu at the tasting room , plus a couple of beers and lots of cocktail choices (some incorporating the ciders). Food offerings include a cheese board, salads, grilled flatbreads, and a burger.

Located in the historic Melrose theater, Sinema is an upscale restaurant with a distinctive theme. The moment you enter, you see a movie playing in the bar, the staircase leading to the mezzanine, and walls lined with throwback photos of the stars from the ‘40s and ‘50s—the Melrose’s heyday.

Sinema’s eclectic American menu and unique setting make it a popular special occasion restaurant, but it’s also great for people looking for something a little different from the downtown hotspots. The food is delicious, and the setting is packed with nostalgia.

You certainly don’t have to be a country music fan to appreciate the Country Music Hall of Fame , but a visit here is one of the quintessential best things to do in Nashville. One of the world’s largest museums, it is home to 2.5 million artifacts, including recordings, photos, instruments, and so many other things.

Just the collection and variety of cowboy boots and clothes alone is kind of mind-blowing. There are also larger, one-of-a-kind items like Elvis’ “Solid Gold” Cadillac painted with crushed diamonds and fish scales.

The Country Music Hall of Fame makes an effort to pay tribute to county music’s heritage while also having a focus on contemporary and even cross-over artists. While there is a permanent collection, some of the exhibits rotate.

A cute cafe in East Nashville, Game Point Cafe is fun whether or not you’re into the 400+ games they offer. There is a sizable food menu in addition to lots of coffee and select beer offerings, and there’s lots of space for people to work, chat, or chill out.

Unlike many game-focused cafes, Game Point Cafe doesn’t charge an entry or playing fee. They offer game coaches on weekday evenings and weekends and host regular events. The whole environment is laid-back and designed to encourage fun. If you’re in the area, don’t miss it.

Near Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities, Hillsboro Village is a neighborhood filled with boutiques and restaurants to explore. Punctuated by fun works of street art, you’ll find favorites like Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Impeccable Pig, and Rebecca James Clothing here. Bonus: If Biscuit Love restaurant is on your list and you don’t wait to wait at the Gulch location, you might find a shorter line at the Hillsboro Village location.

Where to Stay The Hermitage Hotel : Historic elegance Omni Nashville : Music at your doorstep Gaylord Opryland Hotel : Resort complex with endless options See our full guide to the best downtown Nashville hotels . Where to Eat Husk : A celebration of Southern ingredients The Southern Steak & Oyster : Seafood, steak, and locally-grown produce Josephine : Regularly-changing menu of the best produce and meats available daily Check out other choices for great restaurants in Nashville .

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Friday 29th of October 2021

Some things we missed

Sara Albert

Friday 20th of August 2021

Been to Nashville 8 times but still haven't seen it all. I'm a huge country music fan & it's my #1 place to visit.

Bryson Fico

Thursday 4th of March 2021

I couldn't ask for a more detailed guide to Nashville, TN. You hit everything a visitor could want to know and do. I will bookmark and share your blog for sure.

Laura Longwell

Thanks! So glad you found it helpful. It's a great city.

Elaine Marble

Wednesday 12th of February 2020

Planning a trip in Sept. Thanks for great ideas!!

Puja Sheth Sheth

Sunday 9th of February 2020

Thank so much for this great list! I got a lot of great ideas. Keep at it! :)

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30 Best Things to Do in Nashville, From Civil Rights Exhibits to Live Music

Locals weigh in on how to explore this energetic capital city.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If Nashville holds a spot on your must-visit list, you’re not alone — in 2022, more than 14 million people made their way to Music City to take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the cultural hub (and yes, that number includes bachelorette parties ). While Nashville’s reputation as a country music destination precedes itself, there’s more to Tennessee’s capital than the honky tonks on Broadway, the Grand Ole Opry, and The Bluebird Cafe (although travelers should make a point to visit all three). It’s home to top-tier museums, sprawling green spaces, historical markers, and no shortage of places to eat or grab a drink. “The quality of the food and restaurant scene has really exploded over the past 10 years,” says Meredith DiMenna, director of programming for Hutton Hotel and its live music venue, Analog . No matter where you choose to dine in Nashville, your itinerary must include two things: hot chicken and a meal at a meat-and-three (more on that later). “ Prince’s is my go-to for hot chicken, while Puckett’s always impresses with their meat-and-three,” says chef Maneet Chauhan, who owns three restaurants in Nashville: Chauhan Ale & Masala House , Tansuo , and The Mockingbird .  

Famous music sights and non-negotiable Southern dishes will quickly fill up your days and nights over a long weekend getaway, but there’s so much more to discover within the metro area. To help narrow down the list of the best things to do in Nashville, we tapped a few residents, DiMenna and Chauhan included, to share what’s on their “must-do” agenda for anyone spending time in Tennessee’s largest city.  Related : 5 Best Hotels in Nashville

Listen to live music at Robert’s Western World.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you can only fit in one stop along Nashville’s famed Honky Tonk Highway, make sure it’s Robert’s Western World . “You can’t beat the traditional country music every night there,” says Stephen Rose, founder of The Peach Truck . If you’re feeling a bit peckish, order a fried bologna sandwich to go with your cold beer.

Have a meal at a meat-and-three.

This Southern food concept is straightforward: Pick your meat and your three sides. “[Meat-and-threes] used to be pretty much the only food in Nashville, before it became the food Mecca it is today. There are so many good places that offer this, [but] I’m partial to Martin’s BBQ ,” says DiMenna.

Snap a photo in front of a mural.

Jason Kempin/Getty Images

You’ve probably seen one of Nashville’s many murals on Instagram, but nothing compares to seeing them in real life. Get a picture with artist Kim Radford’s Dolly Parton in East Nashville, or line up in front of the black-and-white “Nashville Looks Good on You” mural in 12South. No matter which neighborhoods you visit, you’ll probably run into one of the city’s many large-scale creations.

Get tickets for a show at The Bluebird Cafe.

Robert Alexander/Getty Images

You never know who will stop by The Bluebird Cafe to play a few songs — Maren Morris, LeAnn Rimes, and Taylor Swift among them. The listening room only has 90 seats, so it’s an intimate and special experience for both the performers and the audience. “It’s such a great spot for a date night, girls’ night, etc., and you could be watching the next biggest country music superstar,” says chef Chauhan.

Tour the Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library.

Paul Natkin/Getty Images

The Civil Rights Movement in Nashville, which took place during the 1950s and 60s, is well documented inside the Nashville Public Library. Powerful photographs showcase the work and events that eventually led to desegregation, and there’s also a symbolic lunch counter, where you can read the Ten Rules of Conduct carried by the protesters during the sit-ins.

Walk around one of Nashville’s many public parks.

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

In between meals, you may want to get your steps in, and there are myriad ways to do so. “When visiting, you must walk across the [John Seigenthaler] Pedestrian Bridge, and check out Nashville’s selection of public parks,” says DiMenna. Centennial Park and Bicentennial Park are two of the more well-known spots, but there’s also Shelby Park, Percy Warner Park, and Cumberland Park. “It’s easy to forget that there is a lot of nature in Nashville, and if the weather is right — don’t try this when it’s super hot — you can get the feeling of being on a true nature walk while you’re still within city limits,” she adds.

Snack on a donut from Five Daughters Bakery.

Courtesy of Five Daughters Bakery

If you have a sweet tooth, schedule a trip to Five Daughters Bakery . There are several locations around Nashville, but the 12South store might be the most picturesque. Once you’ve acquired a donut or two, you can take an Instagram-worthy photo in front of the iconic “I Heart Donuts” mural.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

To truly understand Nashville and its role in music over the years, you must visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and its extensive collections. “In a stroll through the galleries, [you will] experience everything from Thomas Heart Benton’s The Sources of Country Music painting and Elvis Presley’s 1960 Gold Cadillac to the American Currents: The State of the Music exhibit, which takes a broad look at the genre’s contributions to art and life across the last year,” explains Lisa Purcell, executive vice president of external affairs for the museum.

Get a taste of hot chicken.

rez-art/Getty Images

Have a cold glass of sweet tea on standby when dining on hot chicken, especially if you’re sensitive to a bit of heat. “Hot chicken is obviously a must in Nashville, and my go-to is Bolton’s in East Nashville. You can’t ever have a bad experience there,” says Rose.

Shop around 12South.

Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.

One of the more walkable areas in Nashville, the 12South neighborhood is filled with coffee shops, bakeries, and boutique stores. Imogene + Willie is known for denim pieces, and White’s Mercantile, owned by Holly Williams, is billed as a “general store for the modern tastemaker.”

Pick up local produce at a Nashville farmers’ market.

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

If you want to experience Nashville as the locals do, head to one of its many farmers’ markets. “I recommend 12 South Farmers Market in beautiful Sevier Park on Tuesday nights and Richland Park Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings,” says chef Tony Mantuano, who, along with his wife Cathy, guides the food and beverage program at The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel.

See a show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Self-described as the “home of country music,” the weekly live country music radio broadcast has been around since 1925. From 1974 on, it’s been housed in the Opry House, where acts ranging from up-and-comers to big names play multiple nights a week. If you want backstage access before the show, be sure to book a tour in advance.

Book a stay at one of Nashville’s best hotels.

A tourist destination as large as Nashville must meet demand with a variety of accommodation options. Choose from luxurious newcomers like Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Nashville and Conrad Nashville , or veer more toward boutique hotels — Graduate Nashville , Hutton Hotel, Bobby Hotel , and Urban Cowboy are all great choices. The latter, according to Rose, is also ideal for pizza and cocktails. “The vibe is always super on point, with the location housed in a gorgeous mansion in East Nashville,” he adds.

Bowl a few games at Pinewood Social.

A night out in Nashville doesn’t have to include fighting the crowds along Broadway. Instead, you can opt for dinner, drinks, and bowling at Pinewood Social . The six lanes made of reclaimed wood are open seven days a week, and ball and shoe rentals are included.

Buy a pair of cowboy boots.

When in Nashville, right? There are several places to purchase your own pair of boots, including Boot Country , Nashville Boot Co. , and Betty Boots . If you want an extra-luxe experience, custom boot fittings are offered in the VIP loft at Lucchese . “Guests of The Joseph have unique access to schedule a custom fitting at the Lucchese store in The Gulch. Guided by their experts, [you] choose [the] style, materials, shape — everything from toe to heel,” says chef Mantuano.

Pose in front of The Parthenon.

Bruce Yuanyue Bi/Getty Images

Photo ops are widely available in Nashville, but The Parthenon might be one of the more impressive ones. “The Parthenon in Centennial Park is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Athens, and it's so unique and stunning to see,” says chef Chauhan.

Get your biscuit fix at The Loveless Cafe.

Courtesy of Loveless Cafe

Biscuits are par for the course in the South, so you can’t leave Nashville without having one or two for breakfast. The Loveless Cafe has been serving its famous biscuits to Nashvillians and visitors since 1951; try them with country ham, fruit preserves, or the red-eye gravy.

Explore the National Museum of African American Music.

The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) opened in early 2021, preserving and celebrating the Black music experience across genres. Interactive technology lives alongside artifacts, memorabilia, and clothing to create six engaging exhibits that highlight the history of hip-hop, gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, spirituals, and more. “This is the newest edition to the music museums, and it is absolutely incredible. You can spend hours in here if you’re a music fan,” says DiMenna.

Make a souvenir at Hatch Show Print.

Jackson Vance/Travel + Leisure

Part of the Country Music Hall of Fall and Museum, Hatch Show Print has been creating designs and show posters with its vintage type and hand-carved imagery since 1879. Visitors can stop by to learn more about the letterpress print and design shop or they can opt to make something themselves. “Advance book your slot in hands-on workshops, called Block Parties, which invite participants to use some of Nashville’s most recognized imagery to make Hatch Show Prints of their own,” says Purcell.

Swing by the Nashville Zoo.

Misty Mullican/Getty Images

“The Nashville Zoo is a great place to visit for the day, [and it's] enjoyed by both adults and children,” says chef Chauhan. The expansive zoo has more than 3,000 animals and hosts programming that includes overnight camping experiences, classes, and more.

Karaoke at Santa’s Pub.

For more than a decade, Santa’s Pub has been welcoming guests 21 and over for cold beer and karaoke. Like many things in Nashville, it’s something you have to see to believe. “Sunday night at Santa’s Pub. Just trust me,” says Rose.

Stroll around Lower Broad in the evening.

The Lower Broad section of the Broadway Historic District has a variety of sights and sounds to experience. Along with Robert’s Western World, you’ll find Tootsies Orchid Lounge , Legends Corner , and Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row . “It captures the pulse of the city, and you get to see and hear so many amazingly talented musicians,” says chef Chauhan.

Go for a hike at Radnor Lake.

“Radnor Lake is a thing of beauty — our family loves to enjoy great hikes, beautiful scenery, wildlife, and more here, and it’s only minutes away from downtown Nashville,” says Rose. The state park boasts over 1,300 acres of nature preserve, and the Lake Trail is accessible for those with all-terrain wheelchairs.

See a performance at Ryman Auditorium.

Chef Mantuano says that seeing a show at the Ryman is a “truly religious experience.” Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman has more than 2,300 seats and has hosted acts like Elvis, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Lizzo, and Harry Styles over the last 130 years. To immerse yourself in this landmark’s history, take a tour (either guided or self-guided) through the venue.

Spend a day at Cheekwood.

Depending on the season and the weather, Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is the perfect place to explore with the whole family. The 1930s estate includes a 30,000-square-foot mansion and 55 acres of gardens. Visitors can purchase tickets to access the botanical garden, arboretum, and museum, and there’s also a 1.5-mile woodland trail with outdoor sculptures.

Attend CMA Fest.

Larry McCormack/ABC via Getty Images

“ CMA Fest , which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, is the largest and longest-running country music festival in the world,” says Purcell. Recent performers have included Darius Rucker, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, and BRELAND. The 2024 festival will be held June 6 through June 9.

Catch one of the rotating exhibits at the Frist Art Museum.

Housed in a building that formerly served as the city’s main post office, the Frist Art Museum has no permanent collection, and its mission is to “inspire people through art to look at their world in new ways.” “This is a really approachable yet super high-quality museum. They do a great job of mixing internationally known selections with local artists,” says DiMenna.

Learn about Nashville’s recording history at RCA Studio B.

RCA Studio B , described by Purcell as a “time capsule and working studio,” is a Nashville music staple, known for its role in making Nashville the recording center it is today. A guided tour allows you to see where the “Nashville Sound” came to be, and where country and pop stars like Dolly Parton, Charlie Pride, Waylon Jennings, and Elvis once recorded some of music’s most iconic songs.

Browse the Fisk University Galleries.

Travelers interested in American art and American history should make a point to visit Fisk University, Nashville’s historically Black university. The Fisk University Galleries — including the Carl Van Vechten Gallery and the Aaron Douglas Gallery — showcase pieces by Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keefe, and Diego Rivera, among other artists.

Hear the Nashville Symphony.

Music comes in all forms in Nashville. If your tastes lean more classical than country, listening to the Nashville Symphony at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center may be more up your alley. “The building is an architectural gem with incredible acoustics, and the musicians are among the world’s best,” says chef Mantuano.

Related Articles

You can escape the downtown Nashville crowds here: Local hidden gems

From overlooked roadside attractions to offbeat museums and obscure natural wonders, Local Hidden Gems will showcase some of the unique and unexpected treasures that make America extraordinary. We will emphasize charm, surprise and delight.

Local hidden gem:  Radnor Lake, Nashville

Downtown Nashville, among the city’s most popular tourist destinations, is known for its symphony of twangy guitars emanating from the windows of honky tonks . But visitors who are looking for some peace and quiet don’t have to go far.

Radnor Lake State Natural Area and State Park , about a 25-minute drive from Lower Broadway, offers a far more muted soundtrack courtesy of its wildlife. That includes owls, waterfowl, otters and more throughout its 1,389 acres (and counting).

Roughly 10 miles from Nashville’s urban center, Radnor feels a world away. You could spend much of the day there if you want, but it’s just as easy to duck in for a quick walk or find a place to perch and watch the water.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Radnor is free to visit and open all year from 6 a.m. until 20 minutes after sunset. The park offers more than seven miles of hiking trails flanked by wildflowers, mosses and fungi. Visitors can also jog, ride bikes and stroll with pets where there is asphalt or gravel.

Local hidden gem: A perfect symbol of resistance in New York

The park’s Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center – a short hike from nearby parking areas – hosts open houses on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Self-guided tours offer a chance to see birds of prey, snakes and turtles.

Pro tip: Parking can fill up quickly, so consider taking a rideshare.

Address: 1160 Otter Creek Road, Nashville, TN 37220

More information: https://tnstateparks.com/parks/radnor-lake

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nashville, TN

Written by Bryan Dearsley , Colin J. McMechan and Catherine Hawkins Updated Mar 18, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Nashville is the capital of Tennessee and is centrally located in the state along the Cumberland River. One of Nashville's top attractions—a replica of the Parthenon—along with its many universities and colleges has earned it the nickname the "Athens of the South."

Nashville began building its reputation as the capital of country music around 100 years ago with the creation of the radio station dedicated to the Grand Ole Opry. The city is now home to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Music Row . One of the most popular music-themed walks is the Music City Walk of Fame located on Nashville's "Music Mile."

Keep walking to one of Nashville's greenway trails that includes spans over the Cumberland River: John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge and Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge. Another popular attraction and wandering place is Bicentennial Capitol Mall. Grab a beverage and pastry from the adjacent Nashville Farmers' Market.

The city is a jumping-off point to explore the rest of Tennessee. Many historical attractions, including old plantations and Civil War sites, are no more than a half-hour drive away. Numerous hiking trails around Nashville offer a chance to get active.

Learn about the best places to visit with our list of attractions and things to do in Nashville.

See also: Where to Stay in Nashville

1. Grand Ole Opry

2. country music hall of fame & museum, 3. ryman auditorium, 4. make the scene in downtown nashville, 5. learn about the man in black at johnny cash museum, 6. belle meade historic site, 7. groove in glorious gardens at gaylord opryland resort, 8. andrew jackson's hermitage, 9. nashville parthenon, 10. rca studio b, 11. visit exotic friends at nashville zoo, 12. cheekwood estate and gardens, 13. make a recording at musicians hall of fame and museum, 14. belmont mansion, 15. tennessee state museum, 16. view vintage cars at lane motor museum, 17. cruise on the general jackson showboat, where to stay in nashville for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to nashville, best time of year to visit nashville.

The Grand Ole Opry radio show is the longest-running radio program in the United States . Since its first broadcast in 1925, the Opry has presented more than 5,000 shows. It continues to contribute to Nashville's identity as Music City.

In 1974, the venue for the show shifted from the Ryman Auditorium to the 4,000-seat Grand Ole Opry House northeast of downtown. Throughout its history, performers have entertained fans of country, bluegrass, gospel, and old-time music, along with popular music and comedy.

Join in the fun by attending one of the broadcasts. Purchase your Grand Ole Opry Show Admission Ticket in Nashville in advance to assure your seat and free parking in nearby Opry Mills Mall. Consider a scheduled backstage tour to experience the bright lights of show business from a different angle. The Grand Ole Opry House Guided Backstage Tour in Nashville is your VIP pass.

Address: 600 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is located in the heart of downtown. The tall windows of this striking building cleverly resemble the keys of a piano.

The museum features a multimedia display of historical performances, costumes, instruments, gold records, and memorabilia. Other highlights include a Cadillac that belonged to Elvis, a massive 40-foot guitar, a tour bus, and a recording booth. Guided tours of the nearby historic RCA Studio B are also available.

Tour yourself through the museum and enhance the experience with the audio backup of stars such as Dolly Parton. Visit a replica of a tour bus to record your own country music song. And look for the gold record of your favorite bestselling country music album from the thousands on display along many walls.

Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., Nashville, Tennessee

The Ryman Auditorium , home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974, is still being used to host broadcasts of the famous radio show. Originally opened in 1892 as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, the Ryman offers superior acoustics for regular performances of classical and bluegrass music, musical theater, and television shows.

The Ryman is often referred to as the " Carnegie Hall of the South ." Located just off Honky Tonk Row, the auditorium features a museum with exhibits related to its rich musical past. Guided and self-guided tours are available. Try your hand at cutting a record of your own in the Air Castle Studio. Fun backstage tours are available but book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Address: 116 Rep. John Lewis Way N., Nashville, Tennessee

In the heart of every city are areas that have become a destination. Manhattan has Midtown, Miami has Little Havana, and Music City has Downtown Nashville.

Many of the go-to music attractions in the city are located in Downtown Nashville: Ryman Auditorium, Honky Tonk Row, museums honoring the best-known country music performers such as Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Broadway is the hub for nightlife in this neon-lit district, where live country music wafts out into the street.

While strolling through Downtown Nashville and experiencing its contemporary tourist attractions, you are following in the footsteps of the city's past. Evidence of the earliest settlers can be found along the shores of the Cumberland River at Fort Nashborough , which offers self-guided tours. The views in Downtown Nashville feature landmarks that you can see from the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

Johnny Cash, known as the "Man in Black," had a hardscrabble life that he surmounted to win the Grammy award 13 times (and earn an impressive 35 nominations!), becoming one of the most beloved stars of country music. Visit the museum in his honor in downtown Nashville.

Among the exhibits, the museum features handwritten lyrics for two of the most famous of the 1,500 songs Cash recorded: "Folsom Prison Blues" and "I Walk the Line." Johnny Cash's costumes, instruments, letters, artwork, marriage licenses, and songs are on display. There's also a museum store, where you can buy souvenirs, and a café next door, where you can buy whatever you need to fuel an extra hour of touring the museum.

Consider a trip upstairs to visit the Patsy Cline Museum . View videos, memorabilia, and personal items of this gifted country music star. Her career as a country music star tragically ended in a plane crash when she was only 30.

Address: 119 3rd Ave. S. Nashville, Tennessee

Constructed in the mid-19th century, the Belle Meade Mansion is designed in the Greek-Revival style and surrounded by what remains of the former antebellum plantation. During the two-day Civil War Battle of Nashville in 1864, Union and Confederate forces fought on the front yard of the mansion. Evidence of gunfire can still be seen in its tall stone columns.

Guided tours are available, including one that's devoted to telling the history of the estate from the perspective of the slaves forced to work and live here. Attend one of the culinary experiences and seasonal programs offered at Belle Meade. Explore the plantation stables, gardens, and grounds. If time allows, be sure to grab a bite to eat at the on-site Belle Meade Meat & Three restaurant (a popular spot for lunch), or an ice cream at the Coop N' Scoop, located in a 160-year-old chicken coop. Belle Meade Historic Site is nine miles from downtown.

Address: 110 Leake Ave., Nashville, Tennessee

You don't need to be staying at the Gaylord Opryland Resort to enjoy its most famous asset: its collection of 50,000 tropical plants, many of which are rare international specimens. This magnificent exhibition is a visual and olfactory feast, housed on nine acres of indoor space and tended by 20 full-time horticulturalists.

One-fifth of the collection is in the Garden Conservatory, which features palms and banana trees 60 feet tall. These plants were so tall, they had to be installed in the glass-topped atrium before its construction.

Florida was the source of more than 8,000 tropical ornamentals chosen for the Cascades Atrium. You'll find a 40-foot palm tree, and ginger bushes as tall as the average man.

Delta Atrium, the third large garden, ushers you into a zone of subtropical plants that you can explore in a delta flatboat. Pass beneath the Wishing Banyan tree and make a wish. Admire exotics such as black olive trees and mahoganies dripping with Spanish moss, more than 100 palm trees, banana trees, gardenias, and camellias. Marvel at the entrance to the Delta Mansion, glorified by two 40-foot Southern magnolias.

Address: 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

The Hermitage was the home of America's seventh president, Andrew Jackson . The estate is one of the most picturesque spots in Nashville. Located 14 miles from downtown, the Hermitage was originally constructed in 1819 and rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1834.

Visitors to the Hermitage experience the place as it would have looked when Jackson lived here from 1837 to 1845. The mansion includes a museum with exhibits of Jackson's private and public lives.

Participate in a formal guided tour of the property. Other fun activities include draft horse-powered wagon rides and themed events such as ghost tours. The grounds are well-maintained and include the burial site of Jackson and his wife. Visit the nearby Tulip Grove mansion, the one-time home of family members Emily and Andrew Jackson Donelson.

Address: 4580 Rachel's Ln., Hermitage, Tennessee

If you're looking for one of the best free things to do in Nasvhille , see the iconic landmark of Nashville , a reproduction of the Parthenon in Athens. Located in Centennial Park and a short walk west of the city center, the original Parthenon replica was built of wood, plaster, and brick in 1897 to commemorate the state's first century. The current full-scale replica of the original Greek temple is made of concrete.

Inside the Parthenon is a permanent art collection of 63 works by 19th- and 20th-century American painters. Admire the 42-foot-high model of the statue of the goddess Athena Parthenos covered with gold leaf. Replicas of the famed 5 th century BCE Parthenon Marbles are also on display.

Address: 2500 West End Ave, Nashville, Tennessee

RCA Studio B is near Music Square in the area known as Music Row . This is the heart and soul of the nation's music industry, and RCA Studio B is its most protected historic landmark. The "home of 1,000 hits" thrived for about 15 years starting in 1957.

This recording facility is credited as the birthplace of the unique "Nashville sound" that defined so many big hits of the 1950s and 1960s. While the site closed as a recording studio in 1977, it has become a teaching facility. Visitors come on scheduled tours arranged by RCA Studio B's owner, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Address: 1611 Roy Acuff Place, Nashville, Tennessee

The Nashville Zoo is a great place for tourists to visit with children. Explore the plains of Africa, delve into the rainforests of South America, and discover the many animals of Asia. More than 3,000 animals from 350 species can be viewed, including clouded leopards, Baird's tapirs, toucans, and Sumatran tigers. Animals at Nashville Zoo reside in habitats that represent their natural environments.

Lorikeet Landing allows you to enter an aviary and be surrounded by around 85 Australian parrots. Come to the zoo to ride the Wild Animal Carousel and Wilderness Express Train. Kids naturally know what to do on the zoo's large Jungle Gym, where they slide, swing, climb, crawl, and explore. The Soaring Eagle Zip Line takes your visit to the zoo to new heights.

Address: 3777 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, Tennessee

Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is a sumptuous 55-acre haven of peace and grace. This elegant park-like setting is a tranquil place to visit on a sunny day. Galleries of contemporary art in the historic mansion exemplify the Cheekwood's commitment to the arts and arts preservation.

After your tour of the mansion and the Cheekwood's indoor collection, step onto the Sculpture Trail to experience creatively landscaped installations, including "The Glass Bridge for Nashville." Marvel at the diversity of garden designs and influences and range of trees and shrubs, especially when flowering in season.

This historic attraction also hosts regular music performances, including an "under the stars" concert series in the summertime.

Address: 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

Not to be confused with the Country Music Hall of Fame is the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum , which honors the musical heroes who helped to create the stars . These talented session artists hail from Nashville, Motown, Muscle Shoals, New York, Los Angeles, and recording studios.

Along with their instruments, these are the fellows that made the hits happen. That's why there's so much emphasis at this 30,000-square-foot museum on the presentation of studios, stages, and guitars.

View the studio where Elvis recorded hits such as In the Ghetto . Behold the stage where young Jimi Hendrix performed, as well as one of his guitars. See guitars played by Glen Campbell, who was a session musician before he became a star. Other instruments on display were played by Johnny Cash, Garth Brooks, and Elton John.

If you're into the process that creates superstars of all musical stripes, you can happily learn and experiment at this interactive museum. Here you can try things out–from mixing music and trying out instruments to making your own recording.

Address: 401 Gay Street, Nashville, Tennessee

Built in the 1850s, the Belmont Mansion is the largest antebellum house in Tennessee. It is considered one of the finest mansions of its kind in the United States. Many rooms have been preserved with much of their original décor and furnishings. Designed in the style of an Italian villa, the mansion features elaborate gardens with outbuildings. Belmont also has permanent art exhibits.

Entering Belmont Mansion, the historic splendor of the building is enhanced by furniture, paintings, and original statues by American artists. Following a guided introduction, you are free to explore the mansion on your own.

During the holidays, one of the top things to do at Belmont is attending its Christmas Tour. You'll get to see the mansion dressed up in Victorian decorations and learn about 19th-century holiday traditions.

Address: Belmont Blvd. & Acklen Ave., Nashville, Tennessee

Learn more about the rich history of Tennessee's social and natural history at the Tennessee State Museum . Located adjacent to Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, this spacious state-of-the-art museum covers an area of 137,000 square feet that efficiently accommodates the large collection of original items, interactive exhibits, and multimedia displays.

The museum's diverse collections are considered the "Smithsonian of Tennessee" and filled with artifacts relating to the state's role in the Civil War, including period weapons and furniture. There's also a vast collection of artworks and paintings, in addition to displays related to music and musicians. Notable features that bring the state's past to life include a theater, an education and learning center, and on-site gift shop.

Address: 1000 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, Tennessee

Lane Motor Museum showcases a large collection of vehicles, most of which are from Europe, but also includes exhibits from Japan and the United States. The collection includes the tiniest French-made minicar, with room for only one person and requiring no driver's license. Among vintage cars, there are streamlined Adler coupes dating back to the 1930s. The motorcycle collection includes a 1964 folding scooter.

The museum is not just a space for displaying vehicles. It's a showplace for vehicles that have been restored, as closely as possible, to their original condition. The museum also put its engineering expertise into creating a replica of one of the most unusual cars ever made–a 1933 Dymaxion. The brainchild of Buckminster Fuller, designer of the geodesic dome, this streamlined vehicle is so unusual, it looks like it could power an extra-terrestrial. Only three prototypes were ever produced.

The museum displays about 150 vehicles from its collection of more than 580. To view some of the other cars, consider hopping on one of the guided vault tours on the weekends.

Address: 702 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville, Tennessee

The General Jackson Showboat is the modern version of the 1800s classic four-deck paddle-wheel steamship. This showboat is a great way to get your country music fix while cruising on the Cumberland River.

If you're looking for fun things to do in Nashville at night, this pleasant outing offers a unique view of the cityscape from the water. A highlight is passing under the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

Simplify your planning by booking the General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville . Everything is included: Southern cooking during a lunch or dinner cruise, onboard entertainment, and unsurpassed views of Nashville and the Cumberland River.

Address: 2812 Opryland Drive, Nashville, Tennessee

Downtown Nashville beats with a country heart, and this is where first-time visitors will want to stay. This area is home to music venues, the historic 2nd Ave, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, the world-famous Ryman Auditorium, and Printer's Alley. At the southern end of downtown, sports fans will find Bridgestone Arena. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Nashville's The Hermitage Hotel , housed in a Beaux Arts building dating from 1908, is right by the State Capitol and offers an experience in grandeur from the turn of the century.
• Opened in late 2022, the Four Seasons is one of Nashville's newest five-star properties. Its large suites are outfitted with music-inspired touches, like lamps that resemble recording studio microphones. It offers packages that immerse tourists in Nashville's music scene.
• Next door to the Bridgestone Arena and steps to Ryman Auditorium, the recently renovated all-suite Hilton Nashville Downtown offers large rooms, and may be a good option for families.
• Fully integrated with the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Omni Nashville Hotel is well located just a short stroll from the hip and lively Broadway Avenue.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Mid-range hotels tend to be clustered near Vanderbilt University, an easy drive two miles southwest of downtown on Broadway Avenue. This is a nice area, with lots of parks and The Parthenon historical site, a full replica of the original Greek Athenian Temple. Great for families, the Homewood Suites Nashville Vanderbilt offers full kitchens. This hotel has an indoor pool.
• Another all-suite option is the Home2 Suites by Hilton , located in the same area and offering similar amenities.
• The Hilton Garden Inn Nashville/Vanderbilt has standard rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.

Budget Hotels :

• The fully-renovated Red Roof PLUS+ Nashville Airport offers decent rooms and a shuttle to/from the airport. A convenient base for the budget-minded is the area near the airport. It's a straight shot down Interstate 40, seven miles from the attractions downtown
• A few miles farther out, and featuring an outdoor pool, is the Sleep Inn .
• Just across the street is La Quinta Inn & Suites Nashville Airport , with basic rooms and an outdoor pool at a fair price. Surrounding both hotels is a good selection of chain restaurants.

City Sightseeing :

• Depending on your schedule, you can choose between a morning or afternoon departure for the half-day Discover Nashville tour, which packs in all the city's top attractions in a 3.5-hour tour. Music Row, Riverfront Park, and the Tennessee State Capitol are included on the itinerary, and the cost includes admission to Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
• If you prefer to do things at your own pace, opt for a Nashville Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour . This handy option allows you to stop wherever you choose, and spend as long as you like exploring favorite attractions including Music Row, the Parthenon at Centennial Park, and Vanderbilt University, all accompanied by a guide's informative commentary.
• When you're on a tight schedule or just want to get your bearings at the start of your visit to Music City, opt for the one-hour Best of Nashville City Tour on a Double Decker Bus . This tour will zip you by 100 of the top landmarks and attractions, and offers live commentary by your driver.

Helicopter Tour :

• Fly above the skyscrapers and crowds on Honky Tonk Row while scanning the city like an eagle in the Helicopter Tour of Downtown Nashville . During the 15-minute ride, you learn about Music City from your pilot while experiencing Nashville in your own whirlybird.

The spring and fall are the best times of the year to visit Nashville , when the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are comfortable. You will also encounter slightly fewer tourists on either side of the booming summer season, which can be a relief for those who want to avoid crowds.

Fewer tourists also means more availability for tickets to high-demand places like the Grand Ole Opry , and easier access to other music venues. Hotel rates will be slightly lower in the spring and fall than they are in the summer when prices are inflated.

During the spring and fall, weather is nice enough to go to the many outdoor concerts around the city and enjoy patio dining at local restaurants. Spring is the start of fun free outdoor events , like Musicians Corner with live music at Centennial Park, and outdoor concert dates continue into the fall.

If you cannot decide between spring and fall, it is best to scout out the Nashville festival scene and pick dates based on what strikes your interest.

While summer has some exciting events in Nashville like the CMA-festival, if you are not going for a specific reason during this window of time then it is best not to. Summers in Nashville are sweltering. In contrast, the spring and fall temperatures average in the 70s.

Even in the more comfortable months there can be occasional unpredictable storms and high humidity, so it's a good idea to pack for a range of weather conditions.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Popular Nashville Day Trips : When you're done exploring Nashville, be sure to spend at least a little time exploring the surrounding area. Top-rated day trips within an easy drive include a visit to the Carter House and Carnton Plantation, as well as the Historic Sam Davis Home and Plantation, both of which became famous as battlegrounds during the Civil War.

Another great destination with a rich musical history, Memphis is perhaps most famous as the home of Elvis Presley's Graceland. Memphis is also famous for its fun Beale Street Entertainment District, as well as the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum.

The Great Outdoors : For a fun back-to-nature experience, head to the Smoky Mountains , home to the country's most visited national park. Popular outdoor activities include hiking, biking, camping and white water rafting. And if fishing's your thing, Tennessee is famous for its superlative fly fishing , boasting an impressive 22,000 miles of streams and some 29 reservoirs in which to cast a line.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Nashville

By Margaret Littman

Music City is a quirky place: It's a big place with a small-town feel—a little bit country, a little bit rock and roll, if you will. That makes for an all-encompassing list of things to do in Nashville. The music scene here obviously draws both travelers and aspiring song writers alike, and Honky Tonk Row beckons with ‘round the clock live shows and cheap beer in plastic cups. But don’t forget to venture off of Broadway—way off Broadway. Look around and you'll find a burgeoning art community, eclectic indie boutiques, and a food scene that has grown immensely from its local Southern roots and into one of America's most exciting dining destinations. Tick as many of these places as you can off your list if you want to feel the real heart and soul of this city: These are the best things to do in Nashville on your next visit.

Click the link to read our complete Nashville city guide .

Hatch Show Print Arrow

Part of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Hatch Show Print has been churning out show posters for some of Nashville’s biggest venues and most celebrated artists for more than 140 years. The shop still prints more than 500 posters per year, but visitors can also snatch up a token of Nashville history in the form of replica vintage posters like the one founder William Hatch made for the Grand Ole Opry in 1941. It's not just a place to pick up souvenirs, though. Temporary exhibitions and displays of archival posters are in rotation, and real letterpress geeks can sign up for tours and workshops. Ultimately, the crowd is pretty touristy, but there are plenty of locals who have a piece of Hatch history in their homes.

National Museum of African American Music Arrow

NMAAM covers the whole of the Black music experience. The collection, which includes audio and video files, costumes, posters, instruments, photographs and more, is organized by genre and chronology. The material is designed to be interactive, and visitors can see where musicians got their influences and then who influenced them. The museum goes in-depth, covering both well-known performers and those whose names are otherwise lost to history. The entire collection is permanent, but because so much of it is how you interact with it—do you try to record your own song, listen to different artists—it never feels like the same place twice. And as the cornerstone of the mammoth Fifth + Broadway complex (a destination in and of itself with restaurants, live music venues, and shops), it still never feels crowded thanks to timed ticketing. 

Arnold's Country Kitchen Arrow

Yes, Arnold's Country Kitchen is essentially a glorified cafeteria—albeit, one with a James Beard Classic award ( one of two in the city ). Expansions have somewhat shortened the long lines, but because everyone in town, from musicians to politicians to tourists, eats here, expect to wait for the Southern-style "meat ‘n’ three." For decades, Arnold's was only open for weekday lunch, but it now has dinner hours (the popular Arnold’s After Dark), weekend hours, and even a new bar. Whether you're a born-and-bred Tennessean or a Southern-food novice, the meat ‘n’ three is a rite of passage.

Frist Art Museum Arrow

Nashville had a dearth of art museums, but the Frist—which opened in 2001 in a stately Art Deco building that was once the city's main post office—helped fill that void. The art museum has no permanent collection, so you never know what will be on view—and that's why locals love it. The exhibits run the gamut, from vintage automobiles to Japanese art to relics from the Houghton Hall country estate in England . Each one is thoughtfully laid out in a well-illuminated gallery space and there's also a free music show, Music at the Frist, about once a month.

Kaitlin Menza

Matt Ortile

Kelsey Glennon

RCA Studio B Arrow

Everyone from Elvis Presley to Roy Orbison and Carrie Underwood have laid down tracks at this historic recording studio, now a museum operated by the Country Music Hall of Fame. The only way to visit Studio B is on a guided tour, hosted hourly from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It's a tourist hotspot though, so don't be surprised to see some Elvis diehards who drove over from Graceland in Memphis. It's a whirlwind glimpse of Nashville's music scene , and you'll be sure to leave feeling that Music City magic.

The Station Inn Arrow

The Station Inn isn't just Nashville's best bluegrass club; rather, it's the country's best. If you want to hear fast pickin', down-home excitement every night, played by many of the genre’s best musicians, high-tail it here. The drinks are cheap, and the cinder-block building might not gleam like its high-rise neighbors, but everything about the Station Inn is true-blue Music City. You never know who will show up for the Sunday Bluegrass jam, but you do know it’ll be a night to remember. Come and explore the Nashville music scene beyond the honky tonks.

Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library Arrow

Tucked away on the second floor of the main downtown public library, the Civil Rights Room honors Nashville's role in a seminal period of American history. The collection here includes photographs of school desegregation, sit-ins, and marches. A circular table is symbolic of the lunch counters where  college students sat, peacefully protested, and demanded change. The table is engraved with the 10 rules of conduct set out for sit-in participants. The centerpiece of the room is a glass inscription by Martin Luther King, Jr., who visited the city in 1960. Across the hall, you’ll find the  Votes for Women room, a similar tribute to Tennessee’s role in the passage of the 19 th amendment. Browse hear to see propaganda, posters and photos from the divisive time in America’s history a century ago. 

Robert’s Western World Arrow

Lower Broadway is lined with honky tonks, all-day and all-night watering holes, and dance halls that make Nashville Music City. While some have expanded into bachelorette -pleasing cover bands and rock sing-a-longs, Robert’s Western World has remained a legit place to hear Western swing from the best musicians in the city. Come here to kick up your heels, drink PBR, eat a fried bologna sandwich, and have a good time. It’s perfectly acceptable to wander from stage to stage (Layla’s Honky Tonk, the only woman-owned bar on Lower Broad, is another good choice.) As is the case at all honky tonks, don't forget to tip—both your server and the band.

Jefferson Street Sound Museum Arrow

A small house-turned-museum on one of Nashville’s most historic streets, the Jefferson Street Sound Museum sort of looks and feels like you're in someone’s house with their chock-full music collection… because it sort of is. Lorenzo Washington took over the former home and converted two stories into a museum with exhibits based largely around his own collection of artifacts. This museum is oft-overlooked by visitors to Nashville, perhaps because it's small and it is only open one day a week (otherwise, you can come by appointment). But just walking in the front door makes you feel like an insider privy to the secrets of Jefferson Street’s musical legacy.  Much of the signage is handwritten, and going through with Washington as guide is really the only way to understand what’s what. Items on display include many, many autographed photos, instruments, costumes, sheet music, and playbills. The emphasis is on Nashville’s Black music scene from 1940 to 1970, from Jimi Hendrix to Marion James.

Backstage Nashville at 3rd & Lindsley Arrow

Like many time-loved Nashville venues, 3rd & Lindsley is nondescript. From the outside it looks like the DMV, and inside it's basic square tables and ladder-back chairs. All the lighting and sound mechanics are unhidden, but it has good sound and a stage visible from almost any spot on both floors of the bar—and that’s what matters here. If you want to understand Nashville's music, Backstage Nashville's focus on the singer-songwriter is the place to do it.  The weekly event takes place from 12:30 p.m.–2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. Kids of all ages are welcome, and it's the perfect place to expose them to Nashville music without all the age inappropriateness of Lower Broad.

Lane Motor Museum Arrow

This is not your normal museum . The idea behind the private Lane Motor Museum is to display vehicles from Europe, Asia, and North and South America from the 1920s to present day. Every vehicle is in working order and there are more than 150 cars, motorcycles, even some amphibious vehicles. Even if you've been before, you might want to return. The collection rotates; you can see something today that wasn’t shown last week. Labels explain each car's significance, and visitors can peer into the garages where the museum's ongoing restoration efforts take place. 

Carl Van Vechten Gallery Arrow

The Van Vechten Gallery at Fisk University, the historically Black university on the city’s north side, has a world-class collection of art that once belonged to photographer and art promoter Alfred Stieglitz. Stieglitz’s wife, Georgia O’Keeffe, donated a portion of this collection to Fisk on his death. Fisk and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, now take turns exhibiting the collection in its entirety, with it moving back and forth every two years. It is amazing to think about the foresight Stieglitz had when he compiled this collection, with works by Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Diego Rivera, Arthur Dove, Gino Severini, and Charles Demuth. When the collection is at Crystal Bridges, though, it's still worth visiting the Van Vechten to see exhibits like its impressive Harlem Renaissance collection.

Grand Ole Opry Arrow

Chances are, you've heard of The Grand Ole Opry, and with good reason. The historic live broadcast changed locations a few times and moved to its current location—and first dedicated space—at the Opry House in 1974, after more than 30 years as a resident of the Ryman Auditorium . Famously, it has no bad seats, balcony, or floor. The biggest names in country music headline and even make surprise appearances here regularly, but it's still open to fresh up-and-coming talent. To get the full depth and breadth of the Opry experience, book one of the backstage tours before you see a show. They’re chockful of facts and artifacts.

Plaza Mariachi Music City Arrow

Every day is different at Plaza Mariachi, a buzzing gathering place that had a former life as a Kroger grocery store. It's a bit different than some of Nashville's music venues . Mariachi bands and DJ shows are a sure bet, often accompanied by silk dancers. But you may also catch salsa dancing classes, mariachis playing Rocky Top, big-name Latinx stars, guitarists, kids’ shows, and more. The shows are always hopping, so you don't need to seek a specific one. Just come because you have some free time and you're looking for good energy and live music.

Silver Sands Cafe Arrow

Even more than hot chicken, Nashville is known for the meat-and-three–a cafeteria-style diner where you order one meat and three sides. And for more than 70 years Silver Sands has been a Nashville meat-and-three soul food institution. It is nothin’ fancy inside or out, and that utilitarian time-loved ambiance fits the place. The food, made daily by Sophia Vaughn, changes based on the day of the week; meatloaf on Wednesdays and barbecue chicken on Thursdays, for example, and each day includes several lunch options. At breakfast, biscuit sandwiches are built to order, as are pancakes, bacon and other classics. While the word is out among visitors who travel for good food, the majority of customers lining up for breakfast and lunch are locals. The wait can be long, but the vibe is convivial and you'll get to know your neighbors. Nothing here is fancily plated or garnished—it's just classic, delicious eats.

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Nashville International Airport Guide

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Driving in Nashville

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Jack Daniel's Distillery Tour

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Best Museums in Nashville

Top Country Music Attractions

Nashville's Best Parks

Outdoor Escapes Near Nashville

Live Music Venues

Guide to the Grand Ole Opry

Nashville's Top Annual Events

Food to Try in Nashville

Nashville's Best Restaurants

Best Bars in Nashville

Top Nashville Breweries

Your Trip to Nashville: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Ivey Redding

There once was a time when travelers planned a visit to Nashville simply to attend a music festival or spend hours in the city's legendary honky tonks listening to the latest up and coming country band. While those activities remain deeply rooted in the local culture, Nashville now has much more to offer travelers as well.

Over the past decade or so, it has become a culinary hub , offering some of the best food found anywhere in the southern U.S. The city also features an array of outdoor green spaces to explore, a thriving art scene, and some of the best local breweries to sample too. Oh yeah, and the music still remains pretty great, offering a mix of genres and big name stars, along with the hottest new talent looking to make it big.

This guide will give you a good overview of what to expect when visiting the Music City, providing you with valuable information that will help you make the most of your stay.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : The good news is that the honky tonks are open all year round and live music can be found pretty much every day of the week in Nashville. That said, the city is well known for its hot and humid summers, which can be challenging for visitors to endure. That also happens to be the busiest tourist season too, with larger crowds filling up hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, and other attractions. The shoulder seasons of mid-March through May and late-September through November provide better temperatures and fewer people to contend with. Winters are relatively free of snow and ice, although it can still get quite cold. Just pack a warm jacket and you'll be fine.

Getting Around: Nashville's public transportation system mainly consists of semi-reliable bus service. The purple WeGo buses can be found throughout the city and can get you to where you want to go provided you're not in a hurry. The Music City Transit Tracker app can help make it easier to catch the bus, but honestly using the transit directions option in your favorite maps app (Apple Maps or Google Maps) is just as good, if not better. Nashville is a driving city however, so most visitors bring a vehicle, rent a car, or use ride sharing apps. Electric scooters are common throughout the busier parts of the city as well and are a popular option for getting around.

Check out our guide to Nashville's public transportation for more info on the MTA bus system.

Travel Tip: Nashville welcomes around 16 million visitors annually   and a lot of them are long-weekend visitors, meaning travelers tend to show up on Thursday and head home on Sunday. That means the city can be surprisingly quiet from Sunday evening through Wednesday. If you can plan a visit at that time of the week, you'll find crowds are less of a hassle. Or, if you can extend your stay to incorporate one or two of those days, you'll have an easier time booking a reservation at that hot restaurant or getting into a music show.

Things to Do

For many visitors to Nashville it is all about live music. If that's your goal, chances are you won't be disappointed as there are always bands playing somewhere. But the city also has plenty of great food to sample as well and a number of top-notch breweries too. You'll also find historical places to explore, unique shopping, surprisingly great parks, and an array of professional sports teams as well. Whether you're coming for just a day or two, or have an extended stay planned, chances are you'll find plenty of things to keep you busy in the Music City.

Music: If you have trouble finding live music in Nashville, you're simply not looking all that hard. You're likely to find artists and bands playing at the airport upon your arrival, but for a more suitable venue head down to Lower Broadway to check out the honky-tonk scene. Many of the bars in Nashville have bands playing every night, but for a real treat check the schedule at the Ryman , which just might be one of the best live music venues on the planet.

Museums: Nashville has a wide variety of museums to explore, which are great on a hot, muggy day. The Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-see for fans of the genre and the Tennessee State Museum is a walk through the local history and it's absolutely free to visit. Kids of all ages will love the Adventure Science Center , where you can actually have fun and learn something new at the same time.

History: For a slice of Civil War history, head over to Fort Negley to learn about the largest fortification built for Union troops after the city fell in 1862.   Nashville's Hermitage allows people to learn about the life of President Andrew Jackson and of the people enslaved there through tours of the estate. Nashville's Hermitage was For a different kind of history, head over to Music Row to see the iconic Nashville recording studios, some of which have been named to the National Register of Historic Places .

Parks: The Nashville greenway crisscrosses the city in a variety of places, offering visitors a place to take a quiet stroll and just stretch their legs a bit. But several other parks have a lot to offer as well, including Centennial — which has a full-size replica of the Greek Parthenon – and Radnor Lake , which features six miles of walking trail and the chance to spot an array of wildlife.

Sports: The Music City is home to both the Tennessee Titans of the NFL and the Nashville Predators of the NHL. It also has a AAA baseball team called the Nashville Sounds and a pro soccer team called the Nashville SC (soccer club). In short, that means sports fans will find a lot to love no matter what time of year they visit.

What to Eat and Drink

Nashville is one of those great destinations where the food can range from simple, down-home fare up to gourmet options that are so good you'll think you've died and gone to heaven. The city's signature dish is without a doubt Nashville Hot Chicken, which brings enough spice to test the taste buds of the most adventurous eaters. Give it a try at Hattie B's or Princes Hot Chicken to see what the fuss is all about. For something a bit more elevated and upscale, try the homemade pastas at Rolf & Daughters or sample just about anything on the menu at City House and Adele's .

As with most cities across the U.S., Nashville is home to some outstanding breweries as well. Yazoo is probably the most well known of the local brands, but places like Jackalope and Black Abbey make many fine options as well. If bourbon is more your style, head over to the Oak Bar to sample their stock. The famous and historical bar has been open for more than a century and has 130 bourbons to choose from. For great wine and great atmosphere, pack a picnic lunch and head out to Arrington Vineyards , where the setting is just as enchanting as what's in the bottle.

Where to Stay

There are a number of great hotels to choose from in Nashville, with many of them being centrally located in the downtown area. This makes them a convenient option for those visiting Lower Broadway, or partaking in the city's vibrant nightlife. You'll find some well-known chain hotels located on the periphery of the region, but places like the Hermitage Hotel and Noelle are found right in the middle of the action. If you want to stay a bit further out, the Opryland Hotel is a popular choice, with restaurants, shops, lush gardens, and even a waterpark found on premises.

Getting There

The best way to get to the Music City is by flying directly into the Nashville International Airport . The airport services around 18 million passengers annually.   Centrally located in town, travelers can rent a car, catch a bus, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service. It is roughly a 20-minute drive to downtown in a car. Alternatively, many people drive into Nashville too, with interstates 24, 40, and 65 providing good access from several directions.

Culture and Customs

In case you haven't figured it out just yet, music is the soul of Nashville. But don't be fooled, this isn't just a place for country fans. On any given night, visitors can find blues, jazz, rock, bluegrass, and a number of other genres being played too. Don't expect to find any locals wearing cowboy hats or boots, this is a rapidly growing, forward-thinking, and enlightened city where diversity, culture, and creativity are embraced.

That said, the city is still Southern to the core, which means the local hospitality is warm and welcoming. While Nashville has grown dramatically in recent years, it has also stayed in touch with its roots. Technology has become just as pervasive as barbecue and fried chicken, making this large city feel like a small hometown at the same time.

Money-Saving Tips

• Most live music is free. Sure, some bars will charge a cover, but it is easy to find places that to don't charge an admission fee to listen to the band.
• The area parks are free to use as well and often host events like farmer's markets, art festivals, sports activities, and even live music.
• Several of the city's museums, including the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee Agricultural Museum have no entry fees.
• Take a self-guided walking tour of downtown. There is a lot to see and do in the downtown area of Nashville and it is easily accessible on foot. You'll find shops, restaurants, parks, and other attractions that you can explore completely on your own.
• Discover more free things to do here .

Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. "Statistics & Facts."

Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, Tennessee. "Fort Negley's History."

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. "BNA to Close One Runway for Full Reconstruction." April 3, 2020.

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Posted on Published: November 1, 2022  - Last updated: September 22, 2023

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Although Nashville is the bachelorette capital of the USA and known for the birth country music, after spending a week here, I learned that it’s SO much more than that. 

History, hospitality, food, all genres of music…the energy here is unmatched.

Here are the top things to do in Nashville, Tennessee, especially if you’re a first time visitor.

This list includes the main attractions as well as a few hidden gems, and nothing that’s not worth seeing.

Because I don’t want to waste your time by listing absolutely everything possible you can do in Nashville (hint, there’s too much).

These are only the places, sights, experiences and activities that are worth your valuable time in Nashville.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Lower Broadway Honky Tonks

Nicknamed the honky tonk highway, in downtown Nashville you’ll find Lower Broadway, home of the honky tonks and the best place for nightlife.

This street full of live music is probably the number one attraction in Nashville.

Along 6 blocks you’ll find over 40 bars, and they all have live music every day!

It’s not just nightlife here, the music runs from 10am to 3am everyday.

Some of these bars are even 2 or 3 stories high with a different band or musician on each floor.

The live music is free, but tips are encouraged and appreciated.

And don’t miss checking out the side streets.

For example, the Wildhorse Saloon has the largest dance floor downtown and offers free line dancing.

Doc Holiday’s Bar

Pay a visit to Doc Holiday’s Bar and add your name to a dollar bill and put it up anywhere in the bar. The entire place is covered in money.

It’s also the only bar left in downtown Nashville where you can smoke.

Printer’s Alley 

Printer’s Alley is a hidden gem that a lot of tourists miss. You’ll find it on church street between 3rd and 4th ave.

The narrow alley and all the lights and neon signs make this a magical spot.

It’s a little more lowkey than Broadway where you’ll find a little less country music and little more blues and jazz music. 

But beyond that, there’s so much history here.

During prohibition, the various print shops here turned into speakeasies which blossomed into an underground bar scene and the reason why you’ll find quaint bars and pubs still there today. 

Rascal Flatts and Gretchen Wilson were discovered at venues in Printers Alley. 

Fun fact: Toby Keith recorded “I love this bar” at Lonnie’s in Printers Alley.

The Arcade is a historic shopping area in Nashville with Diagon Alley vibes!

It’s a hidden gem that everyone misses because it’s tucked away 2 blocks behind Broadway between 4th and 5th Avenues.

It was Nashville’s first enclosed shopping district, opened in 1902.

Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is known as the mother church of country music and the birthplace of bluegrass and where the Grand Ole Opry was born.

Legends that have performed here include Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline and Hank Williams.

It’s also where June Carter first met Johnny Cash.

While the grand ole opry has since moved locations, you can still buy tickets for live concerts as well as take a tour of this historic building.

View tour info here.

Ryman Alley

And while you’re there, walk down Ryman Alley, where you can literally walk in the footsteps of country music legends.

Performers would use the back door of the Ryman Auditorium to sneak through the back alley to tootsie’s orchid lounge for a drink after their shows.

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is arguably the most famous honky tonk on Broadway, and you can’t miss the bright purple colored building.

It’s where Willie Nelson got his first songwriting job after performing here.

The most famous patrons who frequented here were Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, and since I’m Canadian, a plug for Terri Clark who got her start here.

Grand Ole Opry

You definitely need to enjoy a night at the Grand Ole Opry, which is not only a concert, but a live radio show that’s been running since 1925.

It’s the longest running radio broadcast in US history.

It’s known as the show that made country music famous.

Each Opry show features live performances by 8 or more artists that range from country music legends, up and coming artists and legendary songwriters.

On this night we saw Terri Clark and Jon Pardi perform among others!

You can also tour the building, learn about the history and go backstage if you didn’t manage to get concert tickets. 

There are two ways for you to enjoy the Grand Ole Opry! The first one is to buy Grand Ole Opry Show Ticket . Another one is to take this Grand Ole Opry Admission with Post-Show Backstage Tour . Choose the best one for you and enjoy the time spent there!

Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Conservatory

The Gaylord Opryland Hotel is the largest non-casino resort in the United States.

Not only is the hotel impressive, inside you’ll find a massive indoor garden and conservatory complete with a boat ride and waterfalls.

They also have stores and restaurants inside to complete your visit if you’re not an overnight guest.

Johnny Cash Museum

If you’re a fan of the man in black, the Johnny Cash Museum is a must see in Nashville.

It’s small, but packed with history and all kinds of items from his personal and professional life. 

Combine it with a meal at Sun Diner

For an exceptional breakfast or lunch before or after your visit, try out Sun Diner next door.

It pays homage to Sun Records’ legendary artists, including Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

I may have ordered the crème Brule French toast more than once which is cinnamon bread dunked in a Rumchata batter.

Ernest Tubb Record Shop

Opened in 1947, this is the ultimate record shop where you’ll find almost every piece of country and bluegrass music. 

Country Music Hall of Fame

The country music hall of fame takes you through the origin of country music and bluegrass music all the way to current country rock stars.

This museum is massive and provides an in depth look at the most celebrated genre of music here in Nashville.

After exploring the exhibits, you can also take the Historic RCA Studio B tour.

Historic RCA Studio B

RCA Studio B is the famous recording studio which gave birth to the Nashville sound.

Many famous artists record here including Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton and many other legends.

Tip: save money and buy the combined Country Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B Tour ticket combo

Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print is the original letter press and poster print shop in Nashville, operating since the 1800s (and still going today).

On a tour here you’ll see the printmaking process in action, view iconic posters they’ve made for country music legends, as well as a chance to design and make your own print.

National Museum of African American Music

According to their website , the National Museum of African American Music is: “the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans.”

This is a brand new museum in Nashville and a must visit for any music fan.

Old Town Trolley Tour

One thing I really enjoyed was taking the Old Town Trolley tour of some of Nashville’s biggest attractions.

It’s a hop on hop off style sightseeing tour full of all kinds of fun facts and history from your driver who narrates the whole way.

I recommend this for first time visitors and early on in your trip to get the lay of the land.

There’s 13 stops so you can see many different parts of the city and you can ride as many times all day.

Many of the Nashville attractions listed within this post are accessible from stops on the Trolley Tour. 

View trolley tour prices & info here .

Bluebird Café

The Bluebird Café is one of the most iconic spots for live music in Nashville – you might recognize it from the famous show of the same name.

Established in the early 1980s, this small venue features up-and-coming as well as hit songwriters in an intimate setting.

The vibe here is a listening room where the songs and the stories are the stars of the show.

It was here that I really came to appreciate how respected the songwriting community in Nashville is.

You might recognize some country stars that were discovered here, including Keith urban, Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift.

General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise

Cruise the historic Cumberland River on one of the country’s largest paddle-wheel boats, the General Jackson.

Enjoy the Nashville scenery from a different angle and catch the sunset if you do the dinner cruise and indulge in a home cooked southern meal on board.

After dinner, sip drinks and listen to live music from the boat decks.

This is another highly rated experience in Nashville. 

View tour prices and info here.

Tour the Homes of the Stars

Did you know there are tons of famous country stars and musicians that call Nashville their home?

On this comfortable bus sightseeing tour you’ll pass by some of the most beautiful neighborhoods and homes of past and present Nashvillians, including Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift, Reese Witherspoon, Garth Brooks and many more. 

Even if you’re not a fan of the rich and famous, this tour provides an in depth tour of some of Nashville’s most varied neighborhoods that most tourists miss. 

Cowboy Boot Shopping

Now, a lot of locals will tell you that the way they can spot tourists is those who wear cowboy boots and hats.

Because of this I was almost not going to bring my boots, but I’m so glad I did.

I ended up wearing them every single day – because I was tourist and so was everyone else who were rocking their boots.

And there’s no shame in that.

One of my favorite things to do was to go boot shopping and check out all the different and outrageous designs (and price tags) among the fresh leather smell.

Line Dancing Class

If you’re in Nashville, there’s no way you’re leaving this town without hitting a dance floor and joining in on a line dance!

If you need a little help or want to brush up on your moves, you can take part in a one hour line dancing crash course.

This is a really fun activity if you’re in town with some friends for a bachelorette or a birthday party.

Check out line dancing lessons here . 

Tip – you can also learn to line dance for free at the Whiskey Saloon, just off Broadway where they offer line dancing lessons almost every night of the week on downtown’s largest dancefloor.

AA Foot Spa

After a couple days of walking around town in your cowboy boots, this place is much needed.

This one is a major hidden gem in Nashville, it’s called AA Foot Spa, and it came recommended to us from a friend who regularly works the country music awards.

It was $40 for the most heavenly foot massage I’ve ever had. It’s a good 20 minutes south of downtown but well worth the drive or Uber ride.

You can find it at 224 Thompson Ln #B.

East Nashville

East Nashville is across the Cumberland River and offers a really different vibe from the honky tonk country music atmosphere in downtown Nashville.

One of my favorite ways to tour this neighborhood was by going on the Brew Hop Brewery Trolley Tour.

It’s a hop on hop off trolley bus that takes you to 7 different breweries. 

View prices & info for the Brewery Tour here .

Go Mural Exploring

Nashville’s art scene was one of the biggest surprises about visiting this city.

I knew it had a few famous murals, but I didn’t realize you can find them on almost every corner it seems.

If you’re looking for a fun and free activity in Nashville, plan a day or an afternoon with your camera and go mural hopping.

If you don’t have a car, there are some fun guided mural tours you can join, like this one that brings you around in a golf cart .

Try Hot Chicken 

While some Nashville locals will tell you to visit Prince’s Hot Chicken, others will tell you to visit Hattie B’s.

Either way, you must try Nashville’s most famous food while you’re here – hot chicken.

We tried Hattie B’s where they’ve got different heat levels ranging from mild to shut the cluck up.

I went for the classic bone-in which is the most traditional way to get hot chicken and went for medium which had a bit of kick but not over the top.

Goo Goo Chocolate Co.

Goo Goo Chocolate Co. was the first company to make a combination chocolate bar in the USA.

If you love chocolate and want a taste of history, stop in for a goo goo cluster.

White Limozeen (Dolly Parton’s Bar)

A unique place to have some drinks and small bites (especially if you’re on a girls trip) is White Limozeen, which is Dolly Parton’s bar.

Everything is pretty in pink. In the summer there’s also the rooftop patio with a pool.

You can find it at the top of the Graduate Hotel in midtown which is about 10 minutes west of downtown.

A visit to White Limozeen is only 1 of 16 unique things to do in Nashville on your Bachelorette party !

Hermitage Hotel

The Hermitage is an upscale, swanky hotel that’s been in downtown Nashville since 1910.

But the most interesting thing about them are the fancy bathrooms, decorated in art deco style. Stop in and ask to see them.

Belle Meade Plantation and Historic Site

The Belle Meade Plantation dates back to the 1840s but was no ordinary plantation.

Here, they bred thoroughbred race horses, where famous bloodlines originated from including Seabiscuit.

There are a few different tours onsite – we chose to tour the mansion, which doesn’t allow photos or video inside, but I can assure you it was fascinating.

But the best part is that there’s a winery onsite, and you can tour the grounds with a glass of wine.  View tour info and prices here.

The Parthenon

Nashville has a full scale replica of the Parthenon, which has earned this city the nickname, Athens of the South.

Inside, you’ll find beautiful art galleries.

Tip – this is included as a stop on the Old Town Trolley tour.

12 South Neighborhood

The 12 South neighborhood was one of my favorite areas to visit, home to locally owned shops and restaurants, vintage stores and of course more murals.  

The Gulch 

Closer to downtown is the Gulch – a higher end neighborhood with boutique shops, famous murals and great eateries.

You’ll find Biscuit Love which is very famous, and also Milk & Honey which was our go-to breakfast spot more than once.

But it’s very popular – sometimes there was a 2 hour wait!

We got lucky and got first come first serve bar seating both times. 

Tip: book a golf cart neighborhood shopping tour and hit all the hot spots without having to walk. 

Frist Art Museum

The Frist Art Museum is home to some of the most prestigious art exhibits in the country and the rotating exhibits are exceptional.

But not only that, the building itself is historically significant. Built in 1934, his building was originally Nashville’s main post office.

Marathon Motor Works

Marathon Motor Works is a former automobile plant that’s been resurrected into a district full of shops, restaurants, distilleries, wineries,  recording studios and more.

The old brick building is unique and is one of the most popular stops on the Old Town Trolley tour.

Belmont Mansion 

The Belmont Mansion is an ornate Italian-style villa that almost reminds one of a mini-Versailles.

It’s been beautifully preserved and it’s not far from downtown.

If you don’t have much time to get out of the city to see other mansions from the 1800s, this one is a great choice.

Jack Daniels Distillery

It doesn’t get more Nashville than this – take a tour of Tennessee Whiskey at the Jack Daniel’s distillery.

It’s about 1.5 hours from Nashville (in Lynchburg), so the easiest way to enjoy the tour and tasting is to join this day trip bus tour.

Visiting the Jack Daniel’s Distillery is one of the best and highest rated day trips from Nashville, and I definitely recommend making time to do this one.

View tour prices & info here.

Arrington Vineyards

If you’re in need of some stunning scenery and a glass of wine, Arrington Vineyards will take your breath away.

With picnic areas and live music throughout the summer months, this place is more than just your typical wine tasting experience. 

🍷 Book your transportation to the Arrington Vineyard

Visit award-winning winery with this Arrington Vineyard Winery Round-Trip Shuttle Transportation from Nashville . Luxury round-trip transportation from Nashville will take you right to the Arrington Vineyards Winery!

Wille Nelson and Friends Museum 

This place is a quirky little museum combined with a massive gift and souvenir shop.

Buy your admission tickets online to save a little money.

Catio Cat Lounge

The Catio Cat Lounge is a rescue agency that houses cats until they get adopted.

Until then, visitors are able to book a one hour session (for $12) to play and snuggle with the cats and kittens in their cat café. Check out their website for more info.

Where we Stayed in Nashville (first timers)

Since we were in Nashville for 8 days, we wanted to stay in two different hotels.

We stayed at the Graduate Nashville (fancy) which is the perfect place for a girls trip because it’s home to White Limozeen – Dolly Parton’s all-pink rooftop bar!

We also stayed at Element Nashville Vanderbilt West End (budget).

We liked it because it was low cost, brand new and only a 10-minute drive to downtown/Broadway.

Each of these hotels worked really well for us even though we didn’t have a car.

We just used Uber everywhere and it was easy!

If you’re coming to Nashville on a girls trip, here are the Best Hotels in Nashville for a Bachelorette Party

Touring more of Tennessee?

Read my list of 11 Unique Places to Stay in Tennessee (that you can actually afford)!

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The Best Things to Do in Nashville (Even If You're Not a Partier!)

See country legends perform, visit beautiful state parks, taste the best hot chicken, and more.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Nashville has a reputation for being a prime destination for partiers. It's one of the top spots for bachelorette parties, after all! But while there are certainly many honky-tonks open until the wee hours of the morning—and bar bikes riding up and down Broadway all day long—this historic city has even more to offer that you may not know about.

So make your way down Honky Tonk Highway for a quintessential Nashville experience. Or if you'd rather have a quiet night listening to live country music, wait in line for the best hot chicken sandwich (ever!), enjoy a day at a distillery or winery, go zip lining, have a peaceful day at a state park, or take in Nashville views on a hot air balloon, we're happy to report you can do that here too.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

You can't go to Nashville without learning about country music, and one of the best places to do that is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Located on Music Row in downtown Nashville, this large museum celebrates all things about the genre.

Meet animals at the Nashville Zoo.

Whether or not you're traveling with little ones, it's worth a trip to the Nashville Zoo . Not only are there plenty of animal exhibits, but there are also fun family-friendly experiences, like zip lining, a carousel, and animal shows. Make a day out of it by enjoying some of the dining options, including a pizza kitchen and a creamery.

Stop by the Johnny Cash Museum.

Fans of Johnny Cash will not want to miss the Johnny Cash Museum , which features the world's largest collection of Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia. It's one of the top attractions in the area—and right next door, you can grab something to eat at Johnny Cash's Bar & BBQ .

Find snacks at the Nashville Farmers' Market.

A stop at the Nashville Farmers' Market is a must for anyone who wants to do something low-key. The large market features artisanal food, fresh produce, restaurants, shops, and crafts. Grab some snacks or something to cook later if you need a break from eating out.

Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.

Take in incredible views of the river and downtown skyline by walking the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge , which is closed to car traffic. The historic bridge built from 1907-09 connects downtown Nashville to East Nashville.

Explore the Adventure Science Center.

If you're looking for a way to entertain the kids, head to the Adventure Science Center , a non-profit science museum for children. There, you'll find over 175 hands-on interactive exhibits, from climbing structures to the Sudekum Planetarium.

Experience the Honky Tonk Highway.

One of the most famous streets in Nashville, the Honky Tonk Highway (aka lower Broadway) is a stretch of honky tonk bars known for their music and atmosphere. For a more family-friendly vibe, go before 8 p.m. If you want to get a little wild, head there after dinner. You'll find iconic spots, like Tootsie's Orchid Lounge and The Second Fiddle.

Enjoy the outdoors at Cumberland Park.

If you want to get out of the city for a bit, Cumberland Park is a great spot to walk along the water and enjoy river views. You can walk The Explorer Trail if you want to see butterflies, or take the kids to the play area.

Get a glimpse of (or go inside!) the Parthenon.

Located in Centennial Park, the Parthenon in Nashville is the world's only exact-size and detail replica of the original in Athens, Greece. It was once created for a celebration—but it was so popular, it stuck around. Today, the building regularly hosts art exhibits.

Browse the Nashville Flea Market.

The Nashville Flea Market at The Fairgrounds is only open during the fourth weekend of each month (with some exceptions), but if you catch it, it's worth a visit. It features a wide variety of shopping booths—and if you're looking for unique antiques and vintage items, it's a great place for browsing.

Catch a show at The Bluebird Cafe.

The tiny Bluebird Cafe isn't just a place to get something to eat: It's one of the most iconic listening rooms in the world. Artists like Taylor Swift and Faith Hill have had career-defining moments there, and the place is teeming with country music history. There are two shows a night and reservations are highly recommended.

Stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel.

There are a lot of hotels to choose from in Nashville, but an iconic and classic option is The Hermitage Hotel —where music greats like Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash have stayed. It's located in a prime downtown Nashville spot and offers gorgeous rooms and luxury amenities.

Watch country legends perform at the Grand Ole Opry.

The Grand Ole Opry , one of the biggest attractions in Nashville, is one you won't want to miss. Catch a two-hour live show multiple nights a week, with performances by country legends and rising stars—or just take a tour . And if you need somewhere to stay, the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is a popular hotel, with a spa, golf course, and water attraction.

Visit the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame honors teams, coaches, athletes, and more from the state of Tennessee. Even if you don't actively root for a Tennessee team, diehard sports fans will enjoy browsing the memorabilia and taking in sports history.

Fly high in a hot air balloon.

Adventure seekers will want to reserve a seat in a hot air balloon for arguably the best views of middle Tennessee.

Eat at The Grilled Cheeserie.

There are tons of great restaurants to choose from in Nashville, but The Grilled Cheeserie can't be missed. The food-truck-turned-restaurant is known for—of course—grilled cheese. Try one of the popular gourmet options, like the Buffalo South Melt, or make your own.

Spend time in The Warner Parks.

There's so much to do in the city of Nashville that it's easy to forget that there are a lot of nature-centric things too. Edwin and Percy Parks, collectively known as " The Warner Parks ," create one of the largest parks in Tennessee. You'll find these iconic Allée steps, hiking trails, golf courses, dog parks, horse trails, scenic overlooks, and more.

Have lots of fun at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort.

If you visit Nashville during the spring or summer months, wear the kids out at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort , a waterpark (with 1 million gallons of water!), adventure course, and campground located on Percy Priest Lake—just 10 miles from downtown Nashville. You can rent a lakeside cabin, go zip lining, rent a pontoon boat, go on the water slides...the list of activities is basically endless.

Embrace music culture at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum.

There's a lot to see at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum , so plan accordingly! See instruments used by famous artists, like Simon and Garfunkel, The Beach Boys, Stevie Wonder, and more—and actual studio booths used by the likes of Elvis.

Spend an evening at the Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory.

Visit Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory at Vanderbilt University for tours, telescope nights, meet the astronomer evenings, and more. It's not open all year round, so check the website for hours and ticket information.

Jessica is a freelance writer from New York who loves kale salads and hanging out with her cats.

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Best 10 Scenic Drives in Nashville (10 Most Beautiful Roads)

The beautiful city of Nashville offers a variety of scenic drives for tourists and locals alike to enjoy. From winding mountain roads to sunny riverside highways, there is something for everyone in this vibrant Tennessee town. With its lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning skyline, Nashville is the perfect place to take a leisurely road trip and explore the picturesque countryside.

From the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the serene banks of Percy Priest Lake, each scenic drive has its unique charm. Whether it’s a day trip full of sightseeing or an afternoon exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, Nashville is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Visitors also love stopping by iconic landmarks such as Fort Negley Park and Centennial Park along their journey. Here you can learn about Nashville’s rich history while taking in breathtaking views of the city skyline. For those looking for an even more adventurous route, there are plenty of winding backroads that lead to charming small towns full of culture and life.

From sprawling countrysides dotted with wildflowers and wildlife reserves to quaint country stores stocked with local goods, these roads will provide travelers with a truly unique experience that only Nashville can offer. So plan your next road trip today and discover why so many people consider scenic drives in Nashville one of the best ways to explore this amazing city!

Table of Contents

Overview Of Nashville

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is known as “Music City” due to its long history of producing country music. It is also home to many major music companies and a thriving live music scene with plenty of venues for enjoying performances both big and small. The city offers plenty of sights and sounds beyond the music industry.

Architecture buffs will enjoy exploring downtown Nashville’s many fine buildings, while outdoor lovers can take advantage of the city’s numerous parks, riverside trails, and golf courses. It’s easy to find something to do in this exciting city!

A great way to experience Nashville is by taking a tour of its downtown area. Some buildings stand out for their architectural beauty; these include The Parthenon, the Hermitage Hotel, and Union Station. Additionally, there are several art galleries scattered throughout the city which feature both local and international works from various artistic periods. There are also several public squares where visitors can relax or people watch during the day or night time hours.

Those who love sports will also find plenty to enjoy in Nashville as it is home to some of the best teams in Major League Baseball (MLB). The city’s MLB team plays at First Tennessee Park while football fans can attend games at Nissan Stadium. Other professional sports teams play at smaller venues around town including soccer, basketball, and hockey.

Nashville has much more than just music culture – it’s also a great destination for foodies! The city has countless restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world including Southern comfort food, Mexican tacos, and Italian pasta dishes served up with fresh ingredients sourced directly from local farmer’s markets. Additionally, famous chefs have opened modern eateries featuring farm-to-table fare that highlight local specialties like hot chicken.

While nearby towns provide even more attractions such as Civil War sites, wineries, and antique malls – Nashville itself offers plenty of entertainment options throughout its neighborhoods that make it an attractive place to visit year round! From experiencing live music events on Broadway Street to attending art shows at local galleries – there’s always something new to explore in Music City!

Why Scenic Drives Are A Great Way To Explore Nashville

Nashville is a great city to explore and scenic drives are the perfect way to take in all the beauty that this region has to offer. From winding mountain roads to picturesque riverfronts, Nashville offers some of the most breathtaking views in the world. There is so much to see and do here that no matter what type of traveler you are, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests.

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of winding roads with stunning vistas as far as the eye can see. Take Highway 12 for example, which runs through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and has incredible switchbacks and steep inclines that will surely get your heart racing. Another great drive is along Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile route between Nashville and Natchez, Mississippi full of historic sites, wildlife viewing areas, and even ferries across rivers.

If you’d prefer a more leisurely drive then maybe try out some of Nashville’s backroads such as Piney River Road or Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area where you can go on hikes and swim in creeks amongst awe-inspiring natural formations. The Leipers Fork Loop is also well worth a visit for its peaceful villages and lush green rolling hills – perfect for bike rides or long strolls with your family.

The beauty of Nashville doesn’t just lie within its landscape either; it’s also home to some incredible local wineries where you can sample delicious wines while enjoying beautiful views of vineyards framed by hillsides covered in wildflowers. And let’s not forget about the amazing music scene in Nashville – locals often know when famous musicians will be playing downtown so if you’re lucky enough you might stumble upon one performing live!

Scenic drives provide an excellent way to explore all these attractions plus lots more that Nashville has to offer including golf courses, horseback riding trails, fishing spots etc. creating unforgettable experiences along the way. With its varied landscapes and plethora of activities waiting around each corner, it’s hard not to be seduced by this city’s charm – if only every road trip could be as satisfying!

1. Natchez Trace Parkway: a 444-mile scenic drive from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile-long scenic drive that takes travelers from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi. This unique and captivating route is full of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. The parkway winds its way through three states – Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi – providing stunning views of the lush landscapes along the way.

Starting in Nashville, travelers will experience the rolling hills and farmland of central Tennessee before reaching the Alabama border. Here they will encounter a diverse array of wildlife including deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, beavers, eagles, and more. As you continue your journey southward into Alabama you will eventually reach Tupelo—the home of Elvis Presley—where you can take a short side trip to visit the birthplace of The King himself!

Once you cross into Mississippi, you’ll pass through vast stretches of the bucolic countryside with thick forests and wildflowers that bloom during the spring months. Along this leg of the journey is mile marker 385 which marks an area called “The Devil’s Backbone” where legend has it that a group of settlers was attacked by Native Americans centuries ago.

As you make your way to Natchez, there is plenty of other points of interest to explore such as old plantations like Greenwood Plantation (which dates back to 1833) and Windsor Ruins (a once grand estate destroyed by fire). The route also passes through several quaint small towns like Port Gibson where visitors can dine at some delicious local restaurants or purchase handmade goods at nearby shops before continuing on their journey down south.

Overall, the Natchez Trace Parkway provides a wonderful opportunity for exploration with its abundant historical sites and breathtaking scenery wherever you turn! From experiencing rural America in all its glory to witnessing an abundance of wildlife in its natural habitat – this 444-mile drive certainly won’t disappoint!

2. Caney Fork Scenic River Drive

The Caney Fork Scenic River Drive is an amazing scenic drive located near Nashville, Tennessee. Spanning over 43 miles of stunning landscapes and picturesque views, this winding river drive takes you through a variety of rural landscapes, including rolling hills, open fields, wetlands, and towering forests.

Along the way, you’ll encounter small towns and quaint villages full of rustic charm and friendly locals. You’ll also pass by historic sites like the Caney Fork Dam, a National Historic Landmark built in the 1930s. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of nature with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities along the way; from eagles flying high above to deer casually grazing in nearby meadows. With its combination of natural beauty, rustic charm, and fascinating history, it’s no wonder why so many people come here for a truly unforgettable experience.

In addition to its natural splendor, Caney Fork Scenic River Drive offers plenty to explore as well – from restaurants serving up tasty local favorites to art galleries displaying works from some of the area’s most talented artists.

Several parks along the route provide great spots for picnicking or simply taking in all the beauty that nature has to offer. If you want to make a day out of your trip there’s even an ATV park right off the highway where you can rent an off-road vehicle or take part in some other fun activities like fishing or bird watching.

No matter what type of adventure you seek out on Caney Fork Scenic River Drive , you’re sure to be rewarded with a truly unforgettable experience filled with stunning sights and lasting memories. From its natural wonders to its unique towns steeped in local folklore, this beautiful drive is sure to provide enough excitement for everyone!

3. The Loop through Middle Tennessee’s countryside

Exploring Middle Tennessee’s countryside by car is an experience like no other. The scenic drives in and around Nashville offer stunning views of lush rolling hills and expansive meadows, as well as plenty of historic charm and small-town authenticity.

The back roads of the region provide a wonderful opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life while taking in the beauty of nature. Whether you are looking for a leisurely drive or an exhilarating adventure, there are plenty of routes that cater to every kind of traveler. One such route is the Natchez Trace Parkway, which follows a 444-mile route that starts in Alabama and ends near Nashville.

This scenic route winds through forests, hills, valleys, small towns, and bustling cities. Along the way, it offers numerous sites to explore including several national parks , historic sites, trails, and more. From cascading waterfalls to breathtaking overlooks along winding mountain roads, this drive will leave you with lasting memories.

Another popular scenic drive is along US Highway 31E which takes travelers from the easternmost point of Tennessee to Nashville itself. This stretch follows a 275-mile journey that passes through some of Middle Tennessees’ most stunning scenery with beautiful panoramas at every turn. Highlights along this drive include rolling farmlands dotted with tall oak trees; quaint little towns offering home-cooked meals; wildflower fields spanning for miles; crystal clear creeks full of fish and wildlife; bluffs overlooking scenic rivers; rolling hills covered in lush green foliage – it’s all here!

On hot summer days, it’s also possible to take a detour down some lesser-known country roads where you can find hidden swimming holes surrounded by towering limestone cliffs perfect for cooling off after a long day on the road.

No matter what kind of journey you are looking for through the Middle Tennessee countryside there is something here for everyone! With so many unique landscapes and charming stops along the way, it’s easy to see why so many people enjoy these scenic drives year after year!

4. Leipers Fork Scenic Drive

Leipers Fork Scenic Drive is a breathtaking drive near Nashville, Tennessee. This peaceful drive features winding roads surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The scenery is dotted with small farms, fields of wildflowers, and plenty of wildlife to observe. Along the way, you’ll also be treated to glimpses of the beautiful Leiper’s Creek as it winds its way through the countryside.

The start of the drive takes you through the charming town of Leipers Fork, home to a vibrant art scene with galleries and studios for visitors to explore. As you continue down the road, you’ll witness history come alive at Civil War sites such as Carter House and Carnton Plantation; these historic sites provide unique insight into Tennessee’s past.

Further along in your journey, you can stop off at an array of quaint country stores or grab some lunch at one of the area’s restaurants that serve up homestyle cooking. Those looking for outdoor adventure can take advantage of nearby trails where they can hike, bike, or even take a horseback ride while sightseeing along this scenic route.

For those seeking an unforgettable experience in Music City, look no further than Leipers Fork Scenic Drive . Whether you’re just passing through or planning an extended stay, this picturesque route offers stunning views, plenty of activities, and a variety of places to relax and explore—all just a short drive away from downtown Nashville!

5. The scenic drive along the Cumberland Plateau

The scenic drive along the Cumberland Plateau is one of the most beautiful and unique natural experiences you can find in Nashville. Starting at the east-central part of the city, you will begin your journey winding up into the foothills of this impressive plateau. Along your journey, you’ll have a chance to take in stunning views of rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers. You can also make stops to take advantage of some of Nashville’s famed attractions like The Country Music Hall Of Fame and The Adventure Science Center.

As you continue your drive along the Cumberland Plateau, you’ll be treated to miles and miles of breathtaking panoramic vistas. From high atop these majestic bluffs and ridges, you can gaze out over sprawling valleys filled with thick forests and cascading waterfalls. As you move further north and higher into the plateau, these spectacular views become even more entrancing as they slowly blend and fade into one another.

Moreover, there are plenty of places where you can stop along the way to explore or simply enjoy nature’s beauty in peace. Whether it’s visiting historic sites like Rock Island State Park or taking a hike along some of Tennessee’s many trails, there’s no shortage of activities for visitors looking for an unforgettable adventure on this picturesque route. Even better, those who venture off the beaten path may even come across some hidden gems tucked away in secluded nooks that only locals know about.

No matter what time of year it is, driving along the Cumberland Plateau offers something for everyone – from awe-inspiring landscapes to ample opportunities for exploration – making this scenic drive one that should not be missed while in Nashville!

6. Hwy 96 scenic drive to Narrows of the Harpeth

The Hwy 96 scenic drive to Narrows of the Harpeth is an amazing way to experience the beauty of Nashville. This scenic drive takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Tennessee, including rolling hills, open fields, and winding rivers. Along the way, you’ll pass by quaint towns and farms that dot the countryside.

The best part of this scenic drive is the journey along The Narrows of the Harpeth. This gorgeous stretch of the river cuts through limestone bluffs and was once used as a navigational tool by paddle wheelers as they transported goods upriver. Here you can take in breathtaking views while listening to the soothing sound of cascading waterfalls along the banks.

It’s easy to see why this area has become one of Nashville’s premier attractions for nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In addition to its stunning vistas, it also provides a wide variety of recreational activities like fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and more. Not only will you be treated to breathtaking views, but you’ll also get to experience some unique local culture in nearby towns like Kingston Springs or White Bluff.

The Hwy 96 scenic drive is a must-see for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience in Nashville! Enjoy breathtaking scenery from atop bluffs overlooking winding rivers, explore fascinating historical sites such as Fort Pillow State Park or Rippavilla Plantation, fish for catfish on multiple fishing spots around Narrows of Harpeth River or tour any number of wineries scattered throughout the area – all while being surrounded by lush greenery throughout your journey! Whether you’re looking for a leisurely sightseeing trip or an outdoor adventure, this scenic drive won’t disappoint!

7. Hwy 100 scenic drive through the rolling hills of Williamson County

A scenic drive along Highway 100 in Williamson County, Tennessee, is an ideal way to experience the rolling hills of Nashville. It makes for a beautiful day trip as you wind your way through lush green valleys and over rolling hills, passing through quaint towns and villages that seem untouched by time. From stately churches and historic homes to old-fashioned general stores, this scenic drive will take you back in time with its almost forgotten beauty.

Beyond the picturesque towns and villages, there are many outdoor activities available along this route. Hike or bike one of the trails located around the Narrows of the Harpeth State Natural Area or take a stroll through one of the nature preserves maintained by Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department. This is also a great spot for fishing, kayaking, or canoeing in the Harpeth River.

As you make your way along Highway 100 you’ll come across numerous historical sites such as Carnton Plantation and Carter House as well as monuments like The Battle of Franklin Civil War Memorials. And don’t miss historic downtown Franklin with its variety of shops and restaurants, offering something for everyone.

The drive culminates at Natchez Trace Parkway – a 444-mile stretch of land traversing from Nashville to Mississippi – where you can explore even more stunning countryside vistas including river crossings, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, and Indian mounds. Whether it’s a weekend road trip or just an afternoon excursion, taking a scenic drive down Highway 100 offers travelers an unforgettable journey through some of Williamson County’s most idyllic landscapes.

8. The backroads of the Arrington and College Grove area

The backroads of the Arrington and College Grove area are filled with winding roads that provide a stunning view of the rolling hills and lush foliage that is native to Nashville. Just a few miles outside of the city, visitors and locals alike can enjoy a peaceful drive through this picturesque area.

One of the most popular routes takes you along Old Hickory Boulevard in Arrington and leads you to College Grove Road where many of the farms in the area can be found. Along this stretch of road, it is possible to get a glimpse of some of Nashville’s classic country charm as well as its vibrant modern culture.

As you drive further along, you will pass through scenic woodlands, pastures, and gently rolling hills which all make for an idyllic drive. The journey also offers stunning views of Lake Providence and Radnor Lake, both located just off Old Hickory Boulevard. It is also not uncommon to encounter wildlife including deer, foxes, groundhogs, possums, squirrels, and even coyotes during your drive.

The top attractions on this route include historic sites such as Rippavilla Plantation which was once owned by Cabell Ewing Breckinridge III. Other interesting stops include:

• The Loveless Café where visitors can sample southern cuisines such as fried chicken and biscuits
• Music Row which features numerous recording studios
• Fontanel Mansion which was once home to country music star Barbara Mandrell
• The Hermitage Hotel which was built in 1910
• The Parthenon replica in Centennial Park
• Belle Meade mansion is located just west of Centennial Park
• Loveless Barn offers live music events throughout the year
• Radnor Lake State Natural Area where visitors can take guided hikes or ride bikes along trails surrounded by wildlife and Arrington Vineyards where one can enjoy tastings from their award-winning wines.

Taking a leisurely drive around Arrington and College Grove provides visitors with an opportunity to experience some of Nashville’s best offerings while enjoying spectacular scenery at every turn. Whether looking for southern hospitality or modern attractions, taking time out to explore these backroads offers something special for everyone who visits this beautiful part of Tennessee!

9. The scenic drive through the picturesque town of Leipers Fork

Taking a scenic drive through the beautiful and idyllic town of Leipers Fork is an absolute delight. Located just outside of Nashville, Tennessee, the winding roads of Leipers Fork offer breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush valleys, framed by vibrant pastures full of wildflowers and farm animals. As you drive along these roads, you will be surrounded by rich history and culture in the form of charming churches and stately homes that dot the landscape, each with a unique story to tell.

Along your drive, you may catch sight of some country music stars’ homes or perhaps take a stroll in one of the numerous parks that can be found throughout Leipers Fork. These tranquil settings provide ample opportunity to pause and appreciate nature’s beauty as well as to just relax and enjoy the scenery. If you are feeling adventurous, there are plenty of trails for hiking and biking for those looking for adventure.

Those who visit in springtime will be rewarded with colorful blooms from native wildflowers like trilliums, violets, lady slippers, periwinkles, columbines, irises, and more. With so much to take in around every turn, it’s no wonder why people often refer to this area as “God’s Country”!

Leipers Fork is also home to many diverse attractions that give visitors a chance to get an up-close look at rural life in Tennessee. Historical sites such as The Homestead Manor Museum provide an informative insight into local history while venues like Arrington Vineyards offer a taste of local delicacies accompanied by stunning views. From festivals to music performances—there is sure to be something everyone can enjoy while they explore Leipers Fork!

Whether you decide to explore during the day or take a leisurely drive around this picturesque destination at night; one thing is certain- taking a scenic drive through Leipers Fork is truly unforgettable!

10. The drive along the Natchez Trace National Scenic Byway

The Natchez Trace National Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful and historic drives in Nashville. Spanning 444 miles, the byway follows an ancient trail that was used for over 8,000 years by Native Americans, European settlers, and traders. It is said that much of this pathway remains unchanged as it winds its way through three states – Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.

Beginning in Nashville, the drive offers spectacular scenery and historical landmarks throughout its journey. There’s something for everyone along this route – from breathtaking views of lush forests and meandering rivers to quaint towns and sprawling farms. As you travel along the Trace, you’ll be able to take in a variety of wild animals such as deer, turkey, and even bear – so keep your eyes peeled!

Along the way, you can also visit some incredible historical sites such as Meriwether Lewis’s Grave site in Hohenwald or Fort Loudon State Historic Area. The road will also lead you past some stunning natural features such as waterfalls like Bacon Creek Falls near Smithville or Collinwood Rapids near Waynesboro. If you’re looking for some local flavor, there are plenty of restaurants and shops to stop at along the way like Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House in Lynchburg or Aunt Pittypat’s Porch in Corinth.

During your trip along the Natchez Trace, and National Scenic Byway doesn’t forget to take in some of those amazing sunsets! With unspoiled views stretching out before you, there will be plenty of photo opportunities along this picturesque drive – almost too many! Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a day trip from Nashville, it is sure to be a journey that you won’t soon forget. So why not hit the open road today for an unforgettable experience?

Tips for Enjoying the Drive

One of the best ways to experience Nashville and its surrounding area is to take a scenic drive ! With its rolling hills and lush vegetation, there are plenty of great places to explore. Here are some tips for enjoying scenic drives in Nashville:

• plan your route ahead of time. Look for routes that will give you the most stunning views of the Tennessee scenery. Choose roads that wind through forests or past fields, or take one of Nashville’s many scenic byways. Additionally, research any nearby attractions you may want to visit along the way.
• Be sure to bring all the supplies you need for your drive – snacks, drinks, a camera, and binoculars if available. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order before hitting the road and top off your gas tank at least half full before leaving.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife or interesting landmarks as you go. When driving, be courteous on the road and obey all traffic laws. Take it easy around sharp curves or blind turns – even if you think no one else is around, there could be cyclists or hikers hidden from view who can’t see you coming until it’s too late.
• Enjoy your journey! Slow down to soak in every moment and make sure to pull off at any lookout points or photo ops along the way.
• Don’t forget to stop at local shops or attractions if you have time – getting a taste of local culture can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your drive!

Best Time to Visit:

Nashville is an excellent destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty of some of the most scenic drives in the country. With a variety of highways and rural roads taking you through lush green valleys, rolling hills, serene forests, and picturesque lake views, there’s no shortage of breathtaking sights to take in. In addition to the spectacular views afforded by these drives, Nashville also offers plenty of stops along the way where travelers can explore historical sites, visit local attractions, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

The best time to experience one of these scenic drives is during the spring or fall months when temperatures are milder.

During this time, trees are in full bloom and vibrant colors adorn the landscape as far as the eye can see. Additionally, springtime brings an abundance of wildflowers that make for stunning photo opportunities. However, due to its location in Tennessee’s central plateau region, Nashville does experience hot summers – so no matter what season you choose for your journey be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!

No matter which route you decide to take on your drive through Nashville’s beautiful countryside you’re bound to encounter some delightful attractions worth exploring. From rustic-covered bridges deep in rural areas to historic plantation houses situated atop rolling hillsides – there’s something special waiting around every corner.

There are even several small towns along various routes such as Hartsville that feature unique shops and restaurants with the delicious regional fare. Plus if you’re looking for a bit more adventure then nearby state parks like Montgomery Bell provide plenty of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts!

So whether it’s springtime wildflowers or autumnal foliage that catches your eye – a drive through Nashville is sure to delight every traveler with its breathtaking views and unique attractions. Be sure to plan as many routes require careful navigation due to winding roads and one-lane bridges – but with a little bit of preparation, these drives can provide days fully in Tennessee and can change throughout the year due to weather and other factors.

Therefore, travelers need to research in advance what type of supplies are needed before hitting the road. Essential items such as an extra phone charger, water bottles, snacks, a first aid kit, car tools, maps, or GPS devices are all necessary when traveling long distances across unforgettable memories!

Preparing for the Drive:

Whether you plan on traversing these roads by car or by bike, it’s important to be fully prepared before embarking on such a journey.

Before starting, make sure to have all necessary supplies including extra snacks and water, a first aid kit, and a phone charger. Additionally, plan and know your route before setting off. It’s always best to map out your stops ahead of time so you don’t get stuck in any unexpected detours. Make sure you have a general understanding of each place you intend on visiting so that you can make the most of your trip and avoid any unnecessary delays or confusion.

Those who are driving their vehicle must check their tire pressure, oil level, and brakes before taking off.

Additionally, they should bring along spare tires in case one goes flat during the scenic drive . Otherwise, take advantage of public transportation options available in the area such as buses and trains which will offer riders more flexibility when exploring this beautiful cityscape.

If biking is more up your alley then make sure to check out some great nearby trails. The Cumberland River Greenway Trail offers visitors a 22-mile-long bike path that takes riders through some of Nashville’s most iconic spots such as Centennial Park and downtown Nashville. Check online for local bike rental companies if needed as well as biking laws for rules related to riding paths safely without disturbing the peace or getting injured during their travels.

No matter what option travelers choose for their journey across Tennessee’s gorgeous landscape, safety should always be everyone’s top priority when planning scenic drives in Nashville!

Must-Have Supplies:

When it comes to scenic drives in Nashville, there are several must-have supplies to make your drive as enjoyable and memorable as possible. Pack a cooler full of drinks and snacks, particularly if you plan on heading out for a day trip .

To keep the car from getting too stuffy, pack a few blankets or even an air mattress that you can lay down in the backseat for quick naps. Bring along entertainment such as books, magazines, and music to break up the monotony of the drive. And don’t forget to bring along your camera to capture all of the exquisite beauty that awaits you!

Perhaps one of the most convenient routes is The Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail. This 444-mile-long trail offers stunning views through lush forests and meandering rivers while also providing a window into history – it was used by Indians, explorers, traders, and settlers throughout its long history. Make sure to stop off at some of the many historical sites located along this stretch; Indian mounds, old homesites, and other markers provide insight into times past.

For those seeking more spectacular sights, head over to Cane Ridge Park for jaw-dropping views of rolling hillsides and open fields with horses grazing in nearby pastures. Take along some binoculars so you can spot local wildlife such as falcons, hawks, and bald eagles soaring overhead – all amazing sights that will take your breath away!

If exploring more urban areas appeals to you more than rural scenery then consider taking a drive through Shelby Bottoms Greenway & Nature Park which boasts almost 400 acres of green spaces with various paths winding through wooded areas. Here you will find diverse species of plants and animals making their home among wetlands, streams, ponds, and floodplains in this unique ecosystem within a bustling city setting.

No matter what route you choose while exploring scenic drives around Nashville – make sure to have plenty of water on hand; sunscreen during sunny days; directions ready; phone charging cords & power banks fully charged; snacks handy; your camera handy so you can capture all those amazing memories – let your journey begin!

Road Conditions:

As far as road conditions go, most of the roads in Nashville are well-maintained, with asphalt that is generally smooth and free of potholes. However, due to frequent rainfall throughout the year, there can sometimes be standing water present on the highways or smaller residential streets. To ensure a safe journey while driving through Nashville, it is important to take extra caution when driving during wet weather conditions.

• In addition to typical wet weather hazards, while driving around Nashville, drivers should also be mindful of animals that may inhabit certain parts of town or even travel from one area to another. Deer are particularly prevalent in certain areas outside city limits and often venture into neighborhoods; drivers should remain aware at all times for their safety as well as for the safety of wildlife.
• Additionally, certain highways such as I-24 can become congested during peak hours due to traffic volume so commuters should plan accordingly if attempting to cross-town during peak times .
• Finally, headlights must be turned on whenever traveling after dark—especially in rural areas—and speed limits should always be adhered to stay safe while navigating scenic drives around Nashville. By following these guidelines and being mindful of surrounding conditions while driving around Nashville, visitors will be able to enjoy some truly unique views without compromising their safety or that of others on the road.

In conclusion, Nashville is a great place to go for a scenic drive . The city offers a range of different options, from winding mountain roads to picturesque farmland and historic downtowns. No matter what kind of scenery you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone in Nashville. From the rolling hills and valleys of Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains to the vibrant colors of fall foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , these drives will give you some spectacular views that you won’t soon forget.

Nashville also has some charming small towns along the way, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy local attractions and delicious southern-style cuisine. So if you’re looking to escape your everyday life and take a trip through some beautiful Tennessee countryside, then be sure to check out one of the many scenic drives in Nashville.

Related Posts:

• Best Scenic Drives in Salt Lake City
• Scenic Drives In Estes Park (10 Most Beautiful Roads)
• Top Best Scenic Drives In Alabama
• Best 10 Scenic Drives in Maryland (10 Most Beautiful Roads)
• Best 10 Scenic Drives through Smoky Mountains
• 10 Best Scenic Drives in Banff

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The 19 best things to do in Nashville

Enter the home of country music and hot chicken and discover much, much more

Visitors flock to Nashville for its incomparable country music scene, poppin’ honky-tonks and fluffy, satisfying hot chicken. And who can blame them? This city does a lot of things really really well, and its culture scene is second to none. In fact, a ‘things to do’ list is where Nashville really shines, with enough comedy and theatre on offer to make sure you never get bored. 

You might be heading to Nashville for Live on the Green, Nashville’s huge annual open air concert, for Nashville pride, or possibly for the Tomato Art Fest. But we’d advise booking a longer trip to soak up all that this city has to offer. From free art exhibitions to live music and sports to waterparks, the possibilities are endless in ol’ Nashville Tennessee. It’s also got to be the only place you can get table service at a baseball game. So if you’re ready to take the plunge, indulge yourself in the best things to do in Nashville right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Nashville 🕺 Guide to the best nightlife in Nashville 🥑 The best brunch in Nashville 🏠 The best Airbnbs in Nashville   🍗 The best hot chicken in Nashville 🏘️  The best places to stay in Nashville

An email you’ll actually love

What to do in Nashville

1.  Lower Broad

Broadway is the place to be in Nashville, and is now more trendily known as Lower Broad. Simply, it’s an incredibly cool street in the city, lined with honky-tonks and other music venues, buzzing bars and food spots. You can spend a whole afternoon and evening on this stretch, just make sure you don’t miss Robert’s Western World while you’re there. 

Explore a bunch of cool Nashville neighborhoods after the sun goes down

2.  Madame Tussauds Nashville

Most Madame Tussauds are a lot of fun (and an easy way to get snaps of you and your heroes), but the Nashville location really has a lot going for it. It fits the theme of the city perfectly, with a heavy slant toward musical heritage. That means zones dedicated to Country past and present, including a WSM Radio zone, and the opportunity to lay down a track or two with Elvis, in the Recording zone. Loads of fun.

3.  Hot chicken

Well, you are in Nashville, aren’t you? Hot chicken is an absolute must when you’re in Tennessee, and you won’t get it better than here. If you’re not familiar, hot chicken is spicy fried chicken in buttermilk, squished between two slices of soft white bread and served with a pickle. The original is Prince’s Hot Chicken , but Hattie B’s Hot Chicken is pretty amazing too. We’d advise getting both, obviously. 

Chow down on hot chicken and savor more of Nashville during a neighborhood tour

4.  Ryman Auditorium

The Ryman Auditorium is the most famous music venue in Nashville, a.k.a. the "mother church of country music." Built as the Union Gospel Tabernacle church in 1892, it once was the home of the Grand Ole Opry. Everyone who is anyone wants to perform on this stage. The acoustics are unparalleled and often result in singers showing off their chops in ways they might not be able to elsewhere. It is a pleasure to watch artists’ reverence for the space. Come early and take the backstage tour.

5.  Listening rooms

Nashville is packed with low-key places to hear singer-songwriters play their lyrics, usually acoustically. A listening room is the very core of the Music City experience. Nashville is more about the people who write the songs than the stars who perform them. Open mic and songwriter nights at listening rooms, such as  Listening Room Café  and  Bluebird Café , are places to hear the stories behind the songs.

Want to see more?  Book a tour of Nashville . 

6.  Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library

A freestanding exhibit on the second floor of the main public library, the Civil Rights Room illustrates Nashville’s essential role in the U.S. civil rights movement and desegregation. It is kind of a hard sell to convince people to go to the library on vacation, but these powerful photographs, videos, and displays are worth seeing to learn about the sit-ins and other protests that changed the face of America. 

7.  Soundwaves

An indoor/outdoor waterpark at the  Gaylord Opryland Resort  with adult-only bars, big slides, a lazy river, a giant movie screen for watching flicks from the pool, serious cabana action, and more. While Sounbdwaves is designed for hotel guests, there are all sorts of deals for locals (big discounts on rooms and the chance to book day-only parties). While the term staycation is lame, the idea of feeling like you embarked on a vacation without having bought a plane ticket is not. And Soundwaves delivers with a big splash.

8.  Hatch Show Print

Nothing else captures the aesthetic of Nashville like a letterpress-made poster from Hatch Show Print. This shop, connected to the  Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , has been making posters since 1879. You can take a tour and see the old-school methods or buy a souvenir.

9.  The Band Box

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Located in the right field of the actual First Tennessee Park (now known as  First Horizon Park ), The band Box is a seriously hip place to hang out during a  Nashville Sounds  minor league baseball game. You'll find gourmet spins on the classic burgers and dogs, plus options such as a quinoa kale salad and globally inspired snacks such as empanadas and jalapeño corn fritters. This is not your everyday ballpark food. You can even get actual table service.

10.  Grand Ole Opry

Since 1925, Grand Ole Opry (broadcast on  WSM ) has offered a round-up of different performers playing gospel, country, bluegrass, and more in a jokey entertainment extravaganza. This is the quintessential Nashville experience. Expect shows at least twice a week, Fridays and Saturdays, with additional ones on Tuesday nights during most weeks. Throughout most of the year, it is taped at the Opryhouse in Music Valley, where a backstage tour is available (and worthwhile). Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, the Opry returns to its historic home at the Ryman Auditorium.

11.  FirstBank First Saturday Art Crawl

This is a free party on the first Saturday of the month, where you walk door-to-door-to-door and check out the work of new artists at the city’s top art galleries. The two gallery districts are concentrated in Wedgewood Houston and downtown Fifth Avenue. Each offers a party-like atmosphere (and free wine) to toast the best visual art in a city that values creativity and artistic expression.

Want to see more of the neighborhood?  Book a tour . 

12.  Doyle and Debbie

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In addition to being a laugh-out-loud good time (really, not just the LOL type), Doyle & Debbie offers insight into the world of country music. The show takes place at the Station Inn, one of the most beloved live music venues by locals.

13.  Distillery tour

Nashville is in the heart of Tennessee whiskey country. It would be impolite not to see how the locals get things done on a distillery tour. You can take a pretty drive in the countryside to go to  Jack Daniel’s Distillery  or stay in the city and check out  Corsair Distillery  and Taproom. If you want something completely different, grab a whiskey doughnut at East Nashville’s  Donut Distillery .

14.  Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park

Bicentennial Capitol Mall is a state park inside the city, underneath the shadow of the state capitol building and near the  Tennessee State Museum . This is an engaging way to learn about the history of the state without being stuck inside. Locals love to grab lunch at the  Nashville Farmers' Market  and picnic in the park. Tall trees on the east side replicate the topography of the state. Every hour (on the hour), you can hear the bells toll, playing “Rocky Top” and the “Tennessee Waltz.”

See Nashville at night with an after-hours tour

15.  Meat and three

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At restaurants serving the meat-and-three, choose one meat dish (often beef tips or fried chicken) and up to three vegetables. It doesn’t get more Nashville than this. The food is delicious, particularly at  Arnold’s Country Kitchen  and  Swett’s , with solid takes on comfort food Southern dishes, many of which rotate daily (though the latter actually serves meat and two). Also, this is the only context in the world where macaroni and cheese count as a vegetable.

16.  Noelle and 21c Museum

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Two of the city’s downtown hotels have world-class art collections, and they’re open to the public 24/7—for free.  Noelle  features the work of local artists through the lobby and on each floor. The  21c Museum Hotel  is an actual contemporary art museum, again in a hotel, with exhibits on several topics that change periodically. The 21c also hosts ongoing artist lectures and discussions.

Want to see more museums?  Book a tour . 

17.  Game Point

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A board game aficionado? Get to Game Point and enjoy a collection of nearly 400 board games that you can play—at no extra charge—inside the Bongo East coffee shop. A trained expert helps you pick out a game you and your friends or family will like. Then they'll teach you how to play, so you don't have to get bogged down reading the rules. Buy a beer, a snack, or dinner from the café to enjoy while you play.

18.  BCycle

Music City has more than 90 miles of greenways and 133 miles of on-road bike lanes, so it is a fun city to get to know on a bike. In June 2021, this program introduced electric bicycles, a glimpse into the future. You don’t need to own a bike to make it happen. BCycle has 36 rental stations around town, and you can rent a bike for an hour or a day. Nashville has some hills, so you’ll enjoy great vantage points… and a workout.

19.  Marathon Village

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Marathon Village is a 1900s car factory repurposed into a shopping-dining-drinking district. The old Marathon Motor Works details and photos in the building give a quick history lesson, while the new tenants make for a fun afternoon or evening. Don’t miss  Third Coast Comedy Club ,  Corsair Distillery and Taproom , or the  Bang Candy Company . TV’s Mike Wolfe (of  American Pickers  fame) has an  Antique Archaeology  shop, too. You’ll recognize it by the line out front.

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The Happiness Function

First timer’s guide to nashville by neighborhood.

I’ve got you covered on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay when you visit Nashville for the first time.

In Nashville, Southern hospitality is the heart of the community, music tingles the senses, and good food warms the soul. Music legends like Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and others helped put ‘Music City’ on the map.

Discover some of the best things to do in Nashville, from seeing a world-famous Grand Ole Opry show to pigging out on Tennessee BBQ. 

What To See, Where To Eat, and Hear Live Music in Nashville

Music City at Visitor Information Center.

I’ve been dreaming of visiting Nashville for years, and when the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp (Nashville CVC) invited me for a hosted stay, I jumped at the chance. All opinions are my own.

Here’s a breakdown by each popular neighborhood. 

Highlights: Frist Art Museum, Gibson Garage, Peg Leg Porker BBQ, Third Man Records

The Gulch prides itself on being a LEED-certified community. Fun things include exploring the Frist Art Museum (inside a historic Art Deco building) and the Gibson Garage. Park at the museum, and when you’re done viewing the exhibits, walk to the Gibson Garage.

When you walk inside the Gibson Garage , I bet the first thing you’ll think is, “Wow.”

Demo the guitars, buy some swag, and maybe you’ll even see a famous musician walking around.

Gibson Garage Store.

After you’ve had enough electric or acoustic fun, drive or catch a ride to Peg Leg Porker BBQ . I had the ribs, potato salad, and green beans. Oh, and don’t miss trying the Kool-Aid pickles. They are just what they sound like – pickles soaked in Kool-Aid.

I’ve got to get my hands on Pitmaster Carey Bringle’s BBQ for Dummies book because that’s some good cooking.

Peg Leg Porker BBQ restaurant and Third Man Records Storefront.

To walk off the BBQ food coma, visit Third Man Records , the brainchild of musician and entrepreneur Jack White (from The White Stripes). Fans can buy tickets to tour the facility, learn how vinyl records are created, and get a peek at the day-to-day operations.

No pictures are allowed inside; I won’t spoil details for you now. You’ll have to see for yourself.

Highlights: Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, Martin’s BBQ Joint, Hatch Show Print, Good Goo Clusters

Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Nashville.

The South Broadway (a.k.a. SoBro) neighborhood is home to Nashville’s newer venues, hotels, and restaurants. Spend a few hours checking out the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum and then grabbing lunch at Martin’s BBQ Joint . Both are local favorites.

After lunch, tour the Hatch Show Print , well known for creating the show posters of many famous musicians, including Elvis. Then, swing by the Goo Goo Cluster Shop , where you can make your own candy bar! Emphasis on the “!” (I get excited about chocolate).

East Nashville

Highlights: Jane’s Hideaway, The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club

The locals like to go to East Nashville for eclectic shopping, coffee, dinner, and drinks. Check out Jane’s Hideaway for dinner and live music, and then head to speakeasy The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club for after-dinner craft cocktails. I don’t know about you, but I think speakeasies are fabulous.

North Broadway + Downtown

Highlights: Ryman Auditorium, National Museum of African American Music, Nashville Barrel Company, Ophelia’s, Printer’s Alley, Musician’s Hall of Fame & Museum

Image Credit: Visit Music City.

Ryman Auditorium is one of the most iconic music venues in Nashville. It hosts over 200 shows a year. If you’re not visiting for a performance, you can take a tour to learn how the Ryman Auditorium was the previous home of the Grand Ole Opry and other fun facts.

While exploring this part of town, spend time at the National Museum of African American Music . My favorite part about the National Museum of African American Music is reading about all the artists who helped shape music in America, from the blues to jazz and hip hop.

While in the area, explore the entertainment district hailed as Printer’s Alley. It was a booming place for speakeasies during the Prohibition Era, followed by nightclubs in the 1940s. Jimi Hendrix was even known for playing in clubs here back in the day.

If you love music, add the Musician’s Hall of Fame & Museum to your Nashville vacation.

Local favorites for grabbing drinks or lunch are at Nashville Barrel Company and Ophelia’s . Ophelia’s has pizza.

Highlights: Trendy Neighborhood, Shopping, Instagram Worthy Murals

12 South is great for walking around, dining, shopping, and finding locally created goods. Fragrance lovers will appreciate the Ranger Station , and if you’re looking for authentic U.S.-made clothes , imogene + willie is where to go.

Photographers will love seeking out the colorful murals in this part of town.

Belmont-Hillsboro Village

Highlights: International Market, Belmont Mansion, Belcourt Theatre

Close to Belmont and Vanderbilt Universities, this area has a college vibe and is teaming with trendy places to eat and grab coffee. The International Market is a popular place to find fantastic cuisine.

Popular attractions include the Belmont Mansion , a famous antebellum home, and the Belcourt Theatre , where visitors can learn more about film and classic cinema.

Highlights: Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, Sweetmilk, Airport

President Andrew Jackson’s gravesite.

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is a notable attraction in the Donelson area. Located roughly 10 miles east of downtown Nashville, it’s the nation’s third most visited presidential estate. You can even see his gravesite.

Brunch at Sweetmilk restaurant in Nashville.

Start the day by grabbing breakfast or brunch at Sweetmilk – get the cheese grits. Then, take a tour of the Hermitage. Afterward, head to another trendy neighborhood or relax at your hotel.

FYI – Donelson is the part of Nashville where the airport (BNA) is located.

Highlights: Art Galleries, Diskin Cider, Adventure Science Center, Present Tense

Diskin Cidery in Nashville.

WeHo, short for Wedgewood-Houston , is Nashville’s art district. Have fun touring the local galleries like the Julia Martin Gallery or David Lusk Gallery, then grab a hard cider at Diskin Cider . Diskin Cider is a gluten-free facility for everyone who is gluten-free – like me.

If there’s still time, check out the Adventure Science Center . Inside is a climbing gym, planetarium, and more. If you have kids, you’ll get the “Parent of the Year” award for taking them here.

Present Tense was one of my favorite places I ate in Nashville. The flavors of all the food were incredible, and they also had many gluten-free options. Get the aged tuna and crispy tofu – I wish I had some right now.

Great Places To Hear Live Music in Nashville

Reba McEntire show at the Grand Ole Opry.

Nashville is more than country music. In fact, most of the locals I talked to want visitors to know that all genres of music can be found across this famous town.

Broadway, The Bluebird Café, and the Grand Ole Opry are the three music areas and venues you should visit on your first trip.

Lower Broadway

Think of Broadway like you think of “The Strip” in Las Vegas. Broadway is a street lined with bars hailed as the Honky Tonk Highway . The cool thing about many of these bars is that there is no cover charge, so you can bar hop all night listening to amazing music.  

The Bluebird Cafe

This small venue is a famous place tucked into a strip mall away from the downtown scene. It’s the spot where world-renowned songwriters come to perform the hit songs they wrote. Think MTV’s Unplugged for the vibe. Heads up — tickets for The Bluebird Café can be hard to get.

While there, I enjoyed seeing famous songwriter Victoria Shaw and her friends Andrew Hyatt, Sarah Buckley, and Kaylee Bell. It was incredible, and I loved the intimate vibe.

Kaylee Bell won a Country Music Award (CMA) a few days later. Congrats, Kaylee – I had your song “Keith” stuck in my head for a week.

You never know who you’re going to see in Nashville.

Grand Ole Opry

People from all over the world flock to attend Country Music shows at the Grand Ole Opry . While visiting, I saw Reba McEntire – the Queen of Country Music herself. 

A little history: in 1925, WSM Radio went live with its first show in the Ryman Auditorium. As time passed, the show moved to the Grand Ole Opry, where folks can see live performances now. If you can’t attend a concert live, listen in on WSM Radio every Friday and Saturday.

Have dinner and some famous Tennessee hot chicken (hot fried chicken) at Scoreboard Bar & Grill before going to the Grand Ole Opry show – that’s what we did.

Where To Stay in Nashville

Gaylord opryland resort & convention center.

View from my balcony at the Gaylord Opryland.

The Gaylord Opryland Resort is incredible. It’s like staying in a giant greenhouse. The resort has three atriums on nine acres with over 50,000 species of plants.

Accommodations are beautiful, with over 2,000 rooms to choose from. There are 18 dining options and even an indoor waterpark called Soundwaves. The fun doesn’t stop there. Guests can take a magical riverboat ride through the atriums.

WSM Radio is also located in-house. I walked by one morning and saw the live broadcast.

The Gaylord Opryland Resort is only a 5-minute drive to the Grand Ole Opry, making it the perfect place to stay if you’re in town for a show.

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville.

For an elevated experience downtown close to Honky Tonk Highway, the Four Seasons opened in November 2022. It’s the perfect place for a romantic weekend getaway for two .

The beds are comfortable, the views are incredible, and all the amenities are luxurious.

I loved my view of the Cumberland River. It was great for watching the sunrise.

Mimo Italian Restaurant and Bar Four Seasons Hotel Nashville.

The hotel has an infinity pool, gym, spa, and a fantastic Italian restaurant and bar called Mimo. You don’t have to stay at the hotel to enjoy their restaurant. There are lots of gluten-free options, and I enjoyed dining here. I honestly can’t wait to visit again.

Book directly with the hotel for the best rates, and be sure to ask if there are any special seasonal rates. 

Where to Fly Into Nashville

Fly into the Nashville International Airport (BNA). The airport is about 15 minutes from downtown.

How To Get Around Nashville

No Car Option – If you’re going to stay at a hotel downtown and focus on listening to music and bar hopping along Broadway, you don’t need a car. You can catch an Uber or Lyft from the airport.

If you’d like to see all the different neighborhoods and not worry about parking, you can still get away with not renting a car and catching an Uber or Lyft.

Take a Tour – I went on a Nashville City Tour on the second day, and it was nice because our guide showed us the lay of the city. We saw the Parthenon, the Tennessee State Capitol, and Centennial Park and heard unique stories about the community. So, this is a neat option if you don’t want to rent a car but you’d like to see more of the city.

Rent a Car – If you want the freedom to drive around Nashville and head to Lynchburg, Tennessee, and the Jack Daniel’s distillery , which I highly recommend, you’ll want to rent a car.

Have Fun Visiting Music City

From music and food to culture and historical sites, Nashville has so many things to do.

Don’t worry if you can’t do it all in one trip. Nashville’s the kind of city you visit again and again.

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Ashlee Fechino

10 FREE Things To Do in Nashville

Nashville is full of exciting experiences, and you don't need to spend a dime to enjoy them!

Whether you're a local looking for something new or a visitor on a budget, our list of “10 Free Things to Do in Nashville” is here to help you explore the city's best attractions, FREE!

From music scenes to scenic outdoor spots, these activities showcase the charm and culture of Music City. Dive in and discover how you can make the most of your Nashville adventure for free!

1. Listen to Live Music at the Honky Tonks

The Honky Tonks in Nashville are absolutely legendary. These bars offer free live music every night of the week, accompanied by an energetic experience.

Just remember to tip the musicians. They offer such electric energy with bands playing classic country to rock. It is truly the best way to plunge into the city's music scene without spending a dime.

2. Walk across the pedestrian bridge

One of the favorites for locals and tourists alike is the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, which offers beautiful views of the Nashville skyline and the Cumberland River. This is a perfect bridge to take a leisurely walk, with many photo opportunities. Do not forget to click some pictures and capture the city's beauty from above.

3. Explore Hillsboro Village

Hillsboro Village—a quaint little bohemian neighborhood filled with quirky stores and colorful murals. The area is perfect for strolling, abounding in opportunities for window shopping and photo ops. An artistic vibe wafts over from Hillsboro Village, colored and filled so one may lose themselves in its environs. Our favorite spot is Fido's Coffee Shop, best coffee and burgers in town!

4. Museum Visits

Most museums in Nashville offer free admission on certain days or on some special occasions. This will be a good opportunity to learn something new without spending a penny. Museums vary, ranging from art to history. If you're into music, I recommend the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum; it's the most authentic experience of Nashville's music history, past and present.

5. Radnor Lake Walk

Radnor Lake State Park offers some of the most tranquil trails for a nature walk. It is a sanctuary of safety and serenity away from the madding crowds of the city. Good place to be, appreciating the natural beauty that is Tennessee.

6. Experience the Gulch

The Gulch is a very high-end area of town with boutique shops and murals galore. It's a great place to walk around and take some photos, and it is only a 10-minute walk from downtown Nashville. It has a very vibrant atmosphere; there's never a dull moment.

7. Walk around Nashville Farmers' Market

The Nashville Farmers' Market is a delight for the senses. Just walk through all the locally grown produce, crafts, and flavorful food. Browsing is free, but you'll find it hard not to buy.

8. See a Show at The Bowery Vault

The Bowery Vault offers free entry to some of its shows, although the two-drink minimum policy is still in effect. It is a really small venue where you can enjoy live music. It is one of those places where you will get a taste of the musical genius of Nashville without incurring too many expenses.

9. Picnic at Bicentennial Capitol Mall

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is a quiet park, perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic. The park's large grassy area and historical monuments hold a certain intrigue that is captivating to spend time alone. Just take a few bites along with you and enjoy the calmness around.

10. Find the Murals

Art is one of the things that Nashville is famous for. Try taking a self-guided tour of some of the city's most famous murals. This is fun, free, and a fantastic way to get to know some of the different neighborhoods around town. Nashville is a place alive with free activities that put on display its culture and active spirit. You can indulge your love for music, nature, or art without having to spend a dime. Explore Nashville murals and photo spots here!

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Over 20 Fun Things to do in Nashville with Kids

I s your family heading to Nashville, Tennessee? Music City is one of the nation’s hippest and exciting places to be. We’ve done the research and hit the streets with our family to give you this guide to the best things to do in Nashville with kids!

So grab your hats and boots and get ready to explore Nashville, TN with kids.

Explore more of the state. Here are the best things to do in Tennessee with kids .

Over 20 Great Things to do in Nashville with Kids

See a show at the grand ole opry .

A visit to Nashville wouldn’t be complete without seeing the city’s most famous attraction, the Grand Ole Opry .

A lot has changed since its 1925 origins as a country music radio show. Nearly 100 years of singing, fiddlin’, and guitar pickin’ have taken place on its stage by some of country music’s most famous and iconic artists.

Live shows take place throughout the week, including Saturday nights with over 4,500 consecutive weekly showings!

If seeing some of today’s most famous country music and comedy stars isn’t part of your touring plan (or you are visiting on an off day), consider taking the backstage VIP tour that puts you in the middle of the action and even onto the famous circle.

Next door, explore the Opryland Outlets (Tennessee’s largest) and Gaylord Opryland Resort . Interested in the Opry’s history? The original Ryman Auditoriu m downtown can still be toured.

Stroll Through Country Music History at the Country Music Hall of Fame

More than 2.5 million country music artifacts fill the Country Music Hall of Fame . From recordings to costumes to musical instruments, pictures, and more, the museum is a must for fans of the music genre.

Kids will love the Taylor Swift Education Center and the numerous themed interactive scavenger hunts keeping them interested and involved as you tour and explore the archives. 

Looking for more music museum fun? Explore the Nashville’s music museums:

• The Johnny Cash Museum is dedicated to the career of this famous “Man in Black.” Kid-friendly exhibits and displays keep the little ones motivated.
• The Musicians Hall of Fame pays tribute to the musicians behind the famous front-men and women. Their Grammy Museum Gallery lets kids get hands-on with the process of the music industry from songwriting to recording and producing.
• The National Museum of African American Music showcases African American contributions to the music industry from African Americans. More than 50 music genres and subgenres are explored.
• You will also want to take a tour of Historic RCA Studio B , where legendary artists like Elvis Presley recorded.

See Country Music’s Up-and-Coming Stars at a Broadway Honky Tonk 

Bring music to the present with a visit to a live show at one of the “Honky Tonk Highways’” numerous daily shows.

Although the scene is definitely skewed toward the older crowd , all Broadway honky tonks are open until 5pm for all ages with live music of all genres spilling out into the streets from every venue.

Many honky tonks, like Ole Red (opened by country music star Blake Shelton), offer full restaurant menus in addition to drinks. 

At nighttime, options on Broadway are limited, but some venues off Broadway stay all ages every day. We visited the famous “3rd & Lindsley” for this perk. 

Eat Hot Chicken (and BBQ!) (and Meat & Three!)

Originally created in Nashville with an infamous story of a lover’s revenge, Hot Chicken is an absolute must try! And if spicy isn’t really your thing, have no fear. There are numerous heat levels to try and all come topped with tasty, fresh pickles.

Prince’s Hot Chicken , who created the now-popular fried chicken variation over 100 years ago, has eight heat levels from “plain” to “XXX Hot!”

BBQ fans will also find plenty to fall in love with in Nashville. Low-and-slow, Tennessee-style BBQ can be found at Edley’s BBQ , often voted the best BBQ in the city year after year.

Their “Tuck Special” is a local favorite and “best sandwich” winner in the city. It includes smoked brisket, an over-easy egg, pimento cheese, dill pickles, and two types of barbecue sauces.

Martin’s BBQ is another favorite BBQ restaurant, located just south of the city. If your in the Germantown neighborhood, consider Butchertown Hall , home to Texas-style BBQ and Tex-Mex favorites.

Another Nashville original, Meat & Three is southern, soul food at its core. The name mostly explains it all. You’ll choose a meat dish and three sides to enjoy. Popular restaurants include Puckett’s Grocery (live music nightly) and 417 Union , a retro diner. 

Picky eaters? Head to downtown’s Assembly Food Hall . Here more than 30 local Nashville eateries intertwine in one central and hip location!

Visit the Animals at the Nashville Zoo

The Nashville Zoo features more than 350 amazing creatures from around the world, including the new Andean bear and Sumatran tiger exhibits and kid-friendly favorites like kangaroos, spider monkeys, Masai giraffe, leopards, and white rhinoceros.

This non-profit, conservation-minded zoo also features a fun zip line, carousel, and train for kids hoping to add a bit more adventure to their visit. 

See the Parthenon While Visiting Bicentennial Park

In the downtown Nashville area sits the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Visiting this park is one of the more unique things to do in Nashville with kids.

Self-guided and ranger-guided tours are popular for families wanting to explore the trails and its structures, including a 200-foot map walkable granite map of the state, a WW2 memorial, fountains and water features, and oddly enough, a full-scale replica of the Parthenon from Athens.

Built for the 100th anniversary of the state and as a nod to Nashville being the “Athens of the South,” the Parthenon features rotating art exhibits and tours that may pique the interest of your family. 

Explore the Great Outdoors at Long Hunter State Park

20 minutes from downtown on J. Percy Priest Lake, Long Hunter State Park is a great option for true outdoor enthusiasts. Families can explore the park’s 2,600 acres while hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, biking, or camping. 

The park also has over 20 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Volunteer Trail which has picturesque views of the lake. Some of the trails are multi-use and open to bikers as well.

Although most people head to Nashville for the city perks, that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do in the great outdoors. 

Head to Nashville Shores

Just 10 miles outside of downtown Nashville, Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort has a water park (Nashville’s biggest featuring a wave pool, lazy river, beach and more); treetop adventure course (ropes course and zip lines); jet ski, boat and kayak rentals; group games, and hiking trails. 

The resort also features on-site cabins and over 100 RV sites for families who want to stay on property and use the resort as their home-base.

Go Zip Lining at Adventureworks

Zip Lining is always a hit with older kids, and Adventureworks has two locations in the Nashville area. At the Nashville West location families can zip through old-growth forest along the Harpeth River. They even have moonlight tours on certain Saturdays. The Nashville North location has eight zips over the Whites Creek Pike with great views.

In order to participate kids must be at least eight and weigh over 50 lbs.

Have Lots of Outdoor Fun at the Adventure Park at Nashville

Adventure Park is the area’s newest and largest outdoor park. They have an aerial adventure park filled with obstacles and route of varying degrees of difficulty. Start easy and work your way up! This is open kids as young as seven. Mix things up and try the glow in the dark course at night!

Little ones ages 3 – 6 have their own Adventure Playground with scaled down versions of the obstacles on the big course. In addition to the adventure courses this location also has outdoor axe throwing.

Explore the Adventure Science Center

Take your budding scientists on an adventure through the galaxy at Nashville’s Adventure Science Center. The hands-on exhibits and interactions are sure to spark curiosity and interest in kids of all ages , making it one of the popular things to do in Nashville with kids.

Family favorites include a simulated weightlessness experience to see what it would feel like to fly through space, fingerprint scanning, a laser game that teaches kids to fight off germs, and virtual reality experiences that go back in time. 

While visiting, don’t forget to climb to the roof for an amazing view of the Nashville skyline!

Belle Meade

Belle Meade , once one of the largest private estates in Nashville, now features two tours of its much smaller, but still preserved grounds.

The Mansion Tour focuses on the families and slaves who contributed to the success of the mansion, and the Journey to Jubilee Tour , that tells the stories of the plantation’s slaves, both before and after emancipation. Families can enjoy a taste of old-fashioned southern cooking while on site at The Belle Meade Meat & Three .

Visit President Andrew Jackson’s Home

President Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is one of the nation’s most visited presidential homes. The historic landmark sits on over 1,000 acres and features more than 30 historic buildings, many of which can be explored both indoors and out.

Thankfully, the hermitage recognizes the role of slavery in its success. Tours explain the inherant racism that so notably benefited many in the South, including Jackson.

Looking for more historic homes? Belmont Mansion can be toured in just 30-45 minutes. One of the largest homes in the South during the 1850s, the mansion’s story focus on Adelicia Acklen, the one-time wealthiest woman in Tennessee.

Get in Touch with Your Creative Side at the Frist Art Museum

Not every family loves art museums. But even if strolling galleries isn’t your thing, consider a visit to the Frist to see if it can change your mind.

In addition to offering world-class exhibitions from global sources, families will love the Martin ArtQuest Gallery. The gallery includes 30 interactive art-making stations designed to get even the most art-adverse into creating and exploring artwork.

Add in the full-service cafe, live music, and outdoor sculpture park, the Frist is a must-visit. Oh, and bonus- kids under 18 are free!

Lane Motor Museum

Prefer your art to have wheels? Check out the Lane Motor Museum , featuring 150 cars and motorcycles from across the globe, including the largest collection of European cars in the US!

The museum is renowned for its focus on displaying a diverse and eclectic collection of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and even some microcars. They have classic cars, military vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles, and one-of-a-kind prototypes.

There are vehicles demonstrations Thursday through Monday at 11. The museum is closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

16. Radnor Lake State Park

Just eight miles south of downtown, you will finnd Radnor Lake State Park , a great place to get away from the bustle of the city and enjoy nature. The park covers over 1,300 acres, and the lake is a haven for wildlife including ncluding deer, owls, herons, and otters.

Visit the Walter Criley Visitor Center to join educational programs, guided hikes, and nature talks that are being offered. If you are looking for an easy and scenci walk, take the 1.5-mile Lake Trail which circumnavigates Radnor Lake. To enjoy views from above, hike the Ganier Ridge Trail which is about 2.2 miles long.

Nashville Roller Derby

Looking for something fun and different to experience? How about roller derby? Roller derby matches are a blast to experience in person and the Nashville Roller Derby always put on a great show.

Not familiar with the sport? Roller derby is a fast-paced and physically intense sport played on roller skates. It involves two teams of skaters who skate around an oval track. Points are scored when a designated skater, known as the “jammer,” laps members of the opposing team.

Games often include entertainment elements such as halftime shows, music, and fan engagement. The season typically runs April through October and matches are held at various venues throughout the area.

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens

Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is a historic estate, museum, and botanical garden that was oroginally the private residence of the Cheek family of Maxwell House Coffee fame. It is a stately Georgian-style mansion extensive botanical gardens and rotating art exhibitions.

The estate is especially popular to visit during the holidays when one million lights light up the gardens. There are also s’mores, seasonal drinks, and a Holiday Marketplace. They also have a harvest festival in the fall with pumpkin displays and activities and a spring celebration known as “Cheekwood in Bloom” when the garden’s flowers explode with color.

Check out our full guide to all the best Nashville Christmas events .

Ghost City Tours

Does your family love a good ghost story? Then embark on a family-friendly ghost tour to learn about Nashville’s haunted history. The Ghosts of Nashville Tour visits the most haunted locations in town, including spots that were featured on Ghost Hunters  and  Ghost Adventures .

This is a walking tour. It is spooky but they welcome children of all ages onthe tour so there is no R-rated material if you know what I mean.

Book your ghost tour online !

Tennessee State Museum

I am always a fan of a state museum. It is a great way to learn about the history of the state and those who lived there long before it was a state. The Tennessee State Museum covers various time periods and topics including Native American history, the Civil War, and life on the early frontier all the way up to the 21st century.

They also have a Children’s Gallery designed for kids ages 3 – 8 with lots of hands-on experiences to enjoy. Storytime takes place at 10:30am on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Where to Stay in Nashville with Kids

Gaylord orpyland resort.

Nashville is home to a variety of family-friendly hotels and resorts. Downtown, the Omni Nashville Hotel is always an excellent bet and their family-friendly offerings are fabulous.

But if you want a splurge, consider staying at the Gaylord Opryland Resort . You’ll ohh and ahh as you explore the resort’s nine acres of indoor gardens by foot or, get this, by boat!

Don’t miss the Delta Fountain water show, a spin on the lazy river at the onsite SoundWaves waterpark, or a bite to eat at one of the nearly 20 onsite restaurants! Staying at this special resort is one of the most memorable things to do in Nashville with kids.

Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville

Located steps away from the Country Music Hall of Fame, Symphony Center and Broadway Street, Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville welcomes guests looking to experience the soul and beat of Nashville.

This boutique hotel features 252 guest rooms and 11 suites that provide breathtaking views of the Nashville skyline and Cumberland River. The two-bedroom suites offer ample space for larger groups, from families to friend groups to girlfriend getaways.

Two on-site restaurant options allow guests to experience an elevated dining environment before or after heading to town. Knowing just about everything you’ll need is a walk or quick ride away is priceless here. The Hyatt Centric is a wonderful landing spot for exploring the city of Nashville. It’s just two blocks south of Broadway – so you know you’re nearby the heart and soul of things.

Steep yourself in Nashville’s music history, go to a concert or local honky-tonk bar, get out and try the local food (Hattie B’s Hot Chicken is a must taste as well as The Pancake Pantry) or invest in a pair of cute cowboy boots.

This pet-friendly hotel is close to it all and offers families ultra-comfy guest rooms and suites complete with things like Chromecast, DryBar hairdryers, a fitness center, and an attractive rooftop pool (with day passes available for non-guests). Rooms let you enjoy the view with floor-to-ceiling windows in high-floor accommodations so you can take in the incredible views.

Coffeemaker, mini fridge, blackout curtains, individual climate controls, wide doorways, and clean, uncluttered decor deliver on the essentials. There are also motion sensing lights under the base of the bed and in the bathroom vanity that allow anyone who gets up to use the bathroom at night to safely see where they are going. Hyatt Centric lets you stay close to the action yet relax and enjoy the attention to detail, locally-inspired nooks and crannies, pops-of-color, and attentive friendly staff.